DETROIT When it comes to tracking the way a virus circulates, researchers use many traditional methods, like contact tracing. The genetic code of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is made of roughly 30,000 base pairs. Researchers have been sequencing, or reconstructing, the genetic signatures of different SARS-CoV-2 viruses around the globe. Suggesting the virus didnt come to Michigan directly from China, but rather was imported from Europe. The Michigan signatures also have a relationship to viruses found in several other states.

DETROIT Since the beginning of the outbreak, scientists have known the genetic sequence of COVID-19, but over time, researchers have seen it change, giving rise to the theory coronavirus is mutating. While the newly hijacked cell is making parts to build new viruses, its also copying the virus genetic code and thats where mutations can occur. READ: List of Michigan pandemic executive orders that are still activeThe RNA genetic code for SARS-CoV-2 is 30,000 base pairs long. Fortunately, SARS-CoV-2 appears to change very slowly and sustained mutations do not occur frequently. In fact, its estimated that notable new changes occur at a rate of about 2 per month, which is actually pretty minimal.

A new CDC study suggests pregnant women may be at increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19. Researchers looked at data from over 326,000 women of reproductive age who had tested positive for the virus. The study found that pregnant women were more than five times more likely to be hospitalized than nonpregnant women. Pregnant women were also more likely to be admitted to the ICU and be placed on a ventilator. However, there was no difference in the risk of death between the two groups, but experts said pregnant women should take steps to minimize their risk for exposure including social distancing.

DETROIT In the early days of the coronavirus Michigan was already behind in funding per patient, according to a new report from democrats on the senate government oversight committee. As doctors and hospitals anxiously watch an uptick in cases that new report says Michigans response plan may have been hobbled by a lack of federal funding. June 25, 2020 update: Michigan coronavirus (COVID-19) cases up to 62,306, Death toll now at 5,886According to the report, which was done by the Committees minority staff, by April 10th, Michigan had more than 30,000 cases but had only received $31,000 per patient. At the same time, North Dakota only had 278 cases but received nearly $330,000 per COVID-19 case. The lack of funding also means Michigan needed more supplies but may not have had the money to compete against other states when bidding for critical equipment.