GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Here is the latest information on the coronavirus in Michigan, including the number of cases state offices report and other updates affecting West Michigan.
Friday's cases
On Friday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 4,180 cases of COVID-19 and 66 deaths.
The total case count is at 454,956 with the death toll at 11,274.
MDHHS begins cautious re-opening of High Schools and indoor entertainment, modifying successful 'pause'
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) updated its epidemic order today to allow indoor activities where Michiganders can remain masked, as this has been scientifically shown to slow the virus.
This includes in-person learning at high schools and indoor entertainment venues. Casinos, bowling centers and movie theatres will be allowed to reopen with total capacity capped at 100; food and drink concessions closed; and social distancing requirements in place.
The new order is effective Monday, Dec. 21 and will last until Friday, Jan. 15.
West Michigan hospitals begin administering vaccine
Some West Michigan hospitals have started to administer the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, and even more will continue to do so Friday.
Both Metro Health and Holland Hospital will be giving healthcare workers the vaccine today.
Metro Health's initial shipment was around 970 doses, and more are expected in the coming months. The hospital said it analyzed it's staff's risk of exposure to determine who should get the first doses.
Mercy Health in Muskegon and Mercy Health Saint Mary's in Grand Rapids both started administering the vaccine yesterday. Mercy Health Muskegon received 1,950 doses and Mercy Health Saint Mary's received 975. The health system expects to get weekly shipments.
They are administering them on a voluntary basis to their healthcare workers that meet the CDC's criteria. Those employees are being given the opportunity to self-register and make an appointment to get the vaccine.
Thursday's cases
On Thursday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported 4,024 cases of COVID-19 and 190 deaths. The deaths announced today includes 125 deaths identified during a Vital Records review.
The total case count is at 450,776 with the death toll at 11,208.
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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