Whitmer signs order to expand COVID-19 testing; doctor’s order no longer needed
DETROIT – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed an Executive Order on Tuesday to expand testing for coronavirus (COVID-19) across the state.
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Executive Order 2020-104 expands the types of medical personnel that can order a test, and creates a new category of community testing sites that offer testing to anyone with reason to be tested without an advance order, and without charging an out-of-pocket cost to any Michigander.
Michigan coronavirus (COVID-19) cases up to 55,104; Death toll now at 5,266
The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 55,104 as of Tuesday, including 5,266 deaths, state officials report.
Tuesday’s update represents 223 new cases and 26 additional deaths. Monday’s total was 54,881 confirmed cases and 5,240 deaths.
New cases and deaths continue to slow in Michigan, along with hospitalizations. Testing continues to ramp up, with an average of more than 15,000 per day in the last two weeks.
Metro Detroit retailers start reopening amid COVID-19 pandemic: What to know
Retail businesses in Metro Detroit are allowed to reopen to customers on Tuesday amid the COVID-19 pandemic that has sickened thousands across the state.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s order requires an appointment for customers before entering a retail store. Gatherings of no more than 10 people are allowed.
Michigan Retailers Association spokeswoman Meegan Holland said they are looking at it a little differently.
“There are retailers who say they will take up to 10 customers. If there is an eleventh one out there, then that just starts a line to get in. So it’s a walk-in appointment as far as we’re concerned,” said Holland.
Small businesses in Detroit can get free PPE kits today
Small businesses in the city of Detroit can receive free personal protective equipment (PPE) starter kits on Tuesday courtesy of DTE Energy.
About 6,000 PPE starter kits will be handed out between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tuesday at Eastern Market’s Shed 3. This is for Detroit businesses only.
The kits include 100 masks, 200 gloves and a gallon of hand sanitizer.
Here’s what happened Monday:
Retail businesses prepare for modified reopening Tuesday
Retail businesses in Metro Detroit can finally reopen Tuesday, but some of the restrictions have them preparing for a completely different world.
MORE: Here’s everything that’s reopening this week
It’s been a slow ramp up and a major learning cure for businesses, especially the smaller ones. For customers, Tuesday will require some patience.
2 visiting northern Michigan from out-of-state test positive for COVID-19
Health officials in Grand Traverse County say that two people visiting the area from out-of-state have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).
The Grand Traverse County Health Department says the two were visiting family this weekend. Both travelers were symptomatic and one has been hospitalized, according to Traverse City Ticker.
Death toll reaches 5,240
The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 54,881 as of Monday, including 5,240 deaths, state officials report.
That number is up from 54,679 confirmed cases and 5,228 deaths Sunday.
The official recovery total is 33,168.
Memorial Day crowds suggest Michiganders are too relaxed about COVID-19
The weather in Michigan is beautiful for Memorial Day weekend and the state has started to slowly reopen as coronavirus (COVID-19) cases decrease. But the large crowds suggest residents are relaxing too much about the dangers still posed by the virus.
MORE: Were Michiganders following safe COVID-19 protocols during Memorial Day celebrations?
Health officials across the country have expressed concern about the crowds popping up in many places.
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.