|
As you know, a global outbreak of a respiratory disease named coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) started in China in late 2019. The virus has been detected in more than 90 countries, including the U.S. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Michigan. However, the situation is rapidly evolving and it is likely we will see more cases across the U.S.
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.
Today, the overall threat to the general public and in the U.S. remains low, but we are approaching this emerging threat to public health with an abundance of caution. Because you are a regular subscriber of Michigan natural and cultural resources news from the DNR, we are sharing this important update so you will have appropriate information on the steps people can take to protect themselves and their friends and families at home, at work and in everyday gathering spots.
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.).
It’s not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.
Review travel advisories before planning travel
Always review travel advisories from the federal government when planning personal and business travel. Review CDC.gov/Travel for destinations with risk of community spread of COVID-19.
Take action to prepare your organization
Community spread of COVID-19 in Michigan could affect routines and daily operations. Employers should consider creating or updating their infectious disease outbreak response plan, including:
- Identify work-related exposure and health risks to employees.
- Review human resources policies to make sure policies and practices are consistent with public health recommendations.
- Explore policies and practices for flexible work sites or hours to increase physical distance between employees.
- Identify essential business functions to maintain operations if interruptions to supply chains or increased absenteeism occur.
The Centers for Disease Control has provided guidance for preventing the spread of COVID-19 in communities including businesses, community- and faith-based organizations, and childcare organizations and schools.
Share accurate information
Always share accurate information about a virus and how it spreads. It is important to remember that stigma and discrimination occur when people associate an infectious disease, such as COVID-19, with a population or nationality. COVID-19 does not target people from specific populations, ethnicities or racial background. Suspected discrimination can be reported to the Michigan Department of Civil Rights.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. For the latest information, frequently visit Michigan.gov/Coronavirus or CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
|
