Coronavirus Reaches Oakland and Wayne Counties
(Crystal A. Proxmire, March 10, 2020)
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced Tuesday night that two people in Michigan have tested positive for the Coronavirus. (COVID-19), one from Oakland County and one from Wayne County.
The patient in Oakland County had recently traveled internationally. The one from Wayne traveled domestically.  Both are middle-aged.  The patient in Oakland County is female. The patient in Wayne County is male. Both are currently hospitalized. Beyond that, no further details were made available.
Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun joined Governor Whitmer for a press conference, stating “It is very likely that we will see more cases and there will be community spread.”
She urged people to be prepared.  “All businesses, employers, schools, and universities should be making plans.”
Governor Whitmer focused on preventing the spread and staying safe.  “We are Michiganders. We are tough.  We know how to take care of each other. We will get through this.  But for now take preventative measures,” Whitmer said.
She touted the Michigan.gov website, which has several resources and updates including:
Use good hygiene practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory diseases
Stay home if you are sick and advise others to do the same.
Always cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or sleeve.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, if soap and warm water are not available.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (computers, keyboards, desks, etc.).
COVID-19 Symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. They include:
Fever
Cough
Shortness of Breath
The State of Michigan and MDHHS will announce additional recommendations to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 tomorrow afternoon.
The state of Michigan has been working with federal and local partners to monitor the situation, develop and expand laboratory testing, educate and raise awareness, and prepare for COVID-19 in Michigan.
On Feb. 3, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) activated the Community Health Emergency Coordination Center (CHECC) to support state and local response.
On Feb. 28, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer activated the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) to coordinate state-government resources.
On March 3, Gov. Whitmer announced the creation of four task forces to combat the spread of coronavirus and assess the impact it may have on Michiganders’ day-to-day lives.
Tuesday’s announced cases were the first in Michigan.  Officials are working to determine where the patients have been, and will be communicating with the public if there are people who need to get tested.
Whitmer also declared a State of Emergency.
“We are taking every step we can to mitigate the spread of the virus and keep Michiganders safe,” said Governor Whitmer. “I have declared a state of emergency to harness all of our resources across state government to slow the spread of the virus and protect families. It’s crucial that all Michiganders continue to take preventative measures to lower their risk, and to share this information with their friends, family, and co-workers.”
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter responded to the announcement by sharing Oakland County Health Division resources, and stating ““Oakland County and our Health Division will investigate the circumstances around this case so we understand if there are any potential close contacts. We must all as individuals and communities continue our prevention and preparedness strategies as we hope for a full recovery for this member of the community.”
For the most up-to-date information visit the State of Michigan’s Coronavirus website.
NOTE: This article is a work in progress. Check back often for updates.