Coronavirus in Michigan: Here’s where we stand today

(WDIV)

Congressman sues Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

Michigan Rep. Paul Mitchell (R-Dryden) is suing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer over her handling of the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis, saying her actions violate his constitutional rights.

Whitmer recently extended her state of emergency without the approval of Michigan legislators, who have promised to retaliate legally. The state is under a stay-at-home order through May 15.

Though Whitmer loosened restrictions on businesses such as landscaping, golf and motorized boating, protesters have gathered at the capital demanding the state reopen more quickly.

In his lawsuit, Mitchell claims Whitmer’s initial orders were intended to “flatten the curve” and that the curve was flattened during the first week of April, according to data.

“Yet the governor has nonetheless continued to issue stricter and unclear executive orders that unreasonably and unnecessarily interfere with constitutional rights under the rubric of a continuing ‘emergency,’” the lawsuit states.

Organization says governor’s stay-at-home order puts victims of domestic violence at greater risk

The coronavirus pandemic has created dual danger for women and men who suffer from domestic abuse and sexual violence.

A combination of fear, uncertainty and what appears to be a small loophole in Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Stay Home, Stay Safe order has created more calls and challenges in removing abusers, according to Turning Point, a local shelter for victims.

‘Not out of the woods yet’: Michigan Gov. Whitmer provides update on state’s COVID-19 response

Tuesday will mark eight weeks since the first two COVID-19 cases were identified in Michigan.

Whitmer said the state’s response has been “swift.” She noted the efforts to build alternate care facilities for coronavirus patients. She also said the personal protective equipment procurement team has worked “diligently” to secure PPE.

“There was a time in March when we didn’t have enough PPE to know that we could go into the weekend with the confidence that we would have everything we needed,” Whitmer said.

Whitmer said that now, because of private donations, businesses and the federal government, Michigan has enough PPE to last several weeks.

Michigan health department issues emergency order related to handling of bodies

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Director Robert Gordon issued an Emergency Order on Monday that shortens the time frame hospitals and funeral directors have to contact individuals with authority over disposition of the body of a deceased individual and the amount of time that individual has to make a decision regarding arrangements for the deceased.

Beaumont launches new clinical study on combo treatment for COVID-19

Beaumont Health has launched a new clinical study aimed at treating COVID-19 patients with two common drugs – naltrexone and ketamine.

Beaumont says it received FDA approval to operate the new clinical trial at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.

The study, called “SINK COVID-19,” or the Study of Immunomodulation using Naltrexone and Ketamine for COVID-19, is a randomized study for patients 18 and older.

Whitmer approves of Detroit rapper’s ode to her

Detroit rapper GmacCash’s “Big Gretch” praises the governor’s response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

“She’s doing it for Michigan, so when she hits the stand, everybody should be listening,” GmacCash raps, adding that Whitmer has earned her Buffs, or Cartier Buffalo sunglasses, which are often seen as a status symbol in Detroit.

Here’s what happened Sunday:

State has 23,500 active cases, 11,000 new test results

The state reported about 23,500 active cases of COVID-19 on Saturday, the lowest such total since April 13.

Death toll reaches 4,049

The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 43,754 as of Sunday, including 4,049 deaths, state officials report.

That number is up from 43,207 confirmed cases and 4,020 deaths Saturday.

The official recovery total is 15,659.

15,659 recoveries reported

The official COVID-19 recovery rate in Michigan is now 15,659.

Officials provide an update each Saturday. Last week, that number was 8,342.

Dr. Khaldun speaks on Meet the Press

Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), made an appearance on NBC’s Meet the Press on Sunday morning.

Khaldun has been working directly with Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to respond to the state’s COVID-19 pandemic.

In her interview with Chuck Todd, Khaldun explained why the governor isn’t racing to reopen Michigan’s economy amid the pandemic.

Detroit Dog Rescue reopens ‘Help Line’ as pet owners struggle to care for animals

As many families struggle financially due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, the livelihood of pets are being affected throughout Metro Detroit.

Kristina Rinaldi, Executive Director of Detroit Dog Rescue (DDR), says more pet owners are calling and asking for help than usual.

Click here for more information.

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.

Read more about coronavirus here.