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.
Wednesday's cases
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported a case count of 2,316 for Wednesday. The total case count for the state is now 601,284.
The death toll is now at 15,706 with 7 new deaths reported.
The MDHHS reported that 549,881 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.
Gov. Whitmer reflects on one-year anniversary of COVID-19 in Michigan
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a press conference Wednesday to mark the one-year anniversary of the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in Michigan. She provided special remarks to honor the nearly 16,000 lives lost and families impacted by COVID-19.
During the press conference, she unveiled a tribute video with Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist.
"In the past year we have made strides against the virus because of decisive action to stay home, socially distance, and wear a mask," Whitmer said. "Now, we’re in the second half against the virus thanks to three safe, effective vaccines that will help protect you, your family, and others, and get our country and economy back to normal."
Vaccines are key to returning to normal, and as of March 8, Michigan has administered 2,689,248 vaccines, moving the state closer to its goal of equitably vaccinating 70 percent of Michiganders age 16 and older as soon as possible.
One year later: Kent County's health officer reflects on pandemic losses and lessons learned
It was exactly one year ago, March 10, 2020, that the first case of the coronavirus was found in Michigan.
Just two days later, the first case was confirmed in Kent County, something Dr. Adam London, the Health Officer at the Kent County Health Department, knew was inevitable.
Wednesday morning, 13 ON YOUR SIDE took a look back at those first hectic days, considering how West Michigan is positioned to combat the virus now and the lessons that can help the region moving forward.
Tuesday's cases
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reported a case count of 954 for Tuesday. The total case count for the state is now 598,968.
The death toll is now at 15,699 with 29 new deaths reported. The deaths announced today include 8 identified during a Vital Records review.
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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