MICHIGAN, USA — Here is the latest information on the coronavirus in Michigan, including the number of cases state offices report and other updates affecting West Michigan.
Saturday's cases
Saturday the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported a total confirmed case count of 430,780 with the death toll reaching 10,662.
There were 4,486 cases reported Saturday and 206 deaths from the virus.
The latest data on recoveries is from Friday, Dec. 11. It shows that 236,369 people have recovered from the virus. The state updates this data every Saturday. A recovery is counted as anyone who is 30 days out from the onset of their symptoms.
Michigan is reporting the number of cases at long term care facilities. That data can be seen here. The state is also now reporting school-related outbreaks and that data can be viewed here.
Grand Rapids airport prepared to serve as gateway for COVID-19 vaccine distribution
As the Food and Drug Administration gives the green light to Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine, those at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport say they are prepared to serve as a national and international gateway for distribution.
The Grand Rapids airport is the closest to Pfizer’s Kalamazoo manufacturing operations with the infrastructure needed to support the transportation process. Airport officials have been in talks with four global carriers that have expressed interest in transporting the vaccine.
“We’re here, we’re ready to help and we’re eager to get to work,” said Torrance Richardson, president and CEO of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority. “We have invested in the infrastructure needed to accommodate the wide-body aircraft that will be used to transport the vaccine – and we have the team in place to handle the aggressive delivery schedule. Ford Airport is honored to be a key part of the distribution chain for Pfizer’s life-saving vaccine.”
Friday's cases
On Friday, the State of Michigan reported a total confirmed case count of 426,294 with the death toll reaching 10,456.
There were 5,157 cases reported Friday and 61 deaths from the virus.
State recommendations for COVID-19
People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms, ranging from mild to severe illnesses. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the CDC. The symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chills
- Repeated shaking with chills
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Sore throat
- New loss of taste or smell
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
*Note: This list does not include all possible symptoms. It will be updated as the CDC and health officials learn more about the virus.
The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:
- If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
- Avoid contact with people who are sick.
- If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
- Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.
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