A state of emergency is now in place in the state due to the first presumed positive cases of coronavirus in Michigan. Governor Gretchen Whitmer made the announcement late Tuesday night
“We’re taking every step that we can to mitigate the virus spread and keep Michiganders safe,” said Whitmer. She added there are simple things everyone can do to slow down the spread.
“Wash your hands often, for 20 seconds at least. Practice touching your face less often. Replace handshakes with elbow bumps. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze,” said the governor, adding “I know these sound simple, but they work.”
Whitmer was joined in making the announcement by Michigan Department of Health and Human Services chief medical officer Dr. Joneigh Kaldun, who called on everyone in the state to be ready for more cases.
“All businesses, employers, hospitals, schools, and universities should be making plans and appropriately preparing for this disease,” said Dr. Kaldun. “We’ve been working very closely with our partners across the state for several weeks on these preparations.”
The two believed to have contracted COVID-19 are hospitalized. One is a woman from Oakland County who has recently traveled internationally, while the other is a Wayne County man who has traveled recently within the United States. Specimens from both are now being tested by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
