DETROIT – A new poll shows that Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) has strong support.
Here’s what happened Wednesday:
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Poll shows strong support for Gov. Whitmer’s handling of COVID-19 pandemic
New polling data shows strong ongoing support for Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic in the state -- but most are ready to get back to work.
The poll, released by the Detroit Regional Chamber, shows the majority of Michiganders are taking the threat of the virus seriously - and believe the state is reopening at a good pace.
Whitmer considers major change to COVID-19 nursing home policy
When the governor ordered COVID-19 positive seniors to recover in nursing homes where there were patients who tested negative, medical officials told the Senate Oversight Committee there was chaos and confusion.
The order said those patients would be separated with ramped-up care and heightened levels of personal protective equipment, but testimony showed in many cases, that didn’t happen.
Officials said there was a mad scramble inside Michigan’s nursing homes and the regional hubs where the COVID-19 positive patients went.
Death toll reaches 5,060
The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 53,009 as of Tuesday, including 5,060 deaths, state officials report.
That number is up from 52,350 confirmed cases and 5.017 deaths Monday.
The official recovery total is 28,234.
Fact check: Michigan is not sending absentee ballots to every voter
In a tweet Wednesday, President Trump threatened to “hold up funding” to Michigan, claiming the Secretary of State was “illegally” sending absentee ballots to all voters.
Michigan is not doing that.
Explore Michigan virtually
How about some good news?
While you are social distancing, you can explore Michigan virtually.
The #VirtualPureMichigan campaign will include live cameras showing places such as Traverse City, Holland and Frankenmuth, as well as virtual tours of museums, and other related educational experiences.
How COVID-19 Spreads
Person-to-person spread
The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.
- Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
- Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.
Can someone spread the virus without being sick?
- Spread is possible before people show symptoms. People who are not showing symptoms can still be carrying the virus and can still pass it on to other people.
Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects
It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.
How easily the virus spreads
How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.
Prevention and Treatment
There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
MORE: Beaumont Health launches coronavirus hotline for patients with symptoms
People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.
Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.