Early in the pandemic, Blacks accounted for 40 percent of all COVID-19 deaths. But efforts to address the gap led to health changes that lowered the rate to 14 percent — equal to their proportion of the state’s population.
Michigan Health Watch
In-depth reporting on the intersection between public policy and important health topics ‒ such as insurance coverage, hospital admissions, opioid abuse, access to care, medical research and the business of health care ‒ that impact nearly every Michigan resident.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
New guidance: Most in Michigan can ditch their masks for now
The change marks a shift in masking recommendations, placing counties in a three-tiered risk system.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
One little girl’s death and Michigan’s falling childhood vaccination rates
In Michigan, childhood vaccine rates have fallen through the pandemic, and they weren’t great even before COVID. Tens of thousands of toddlers are not fully vaccinated, opening the door for possible outbreaks of life-threatening diseases.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Ivermectin hovers over COVID ‘Right-to-Try' law passed by Michigan House
Supporters say it will allow doctors to prescribe not-yet-approved drugs for dying COVID patients. Critics say it’s not needed, and is an effort to bully doctors into dispensing an unproven drug touted by conservatives.
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Northern Michigan health director quits, cites anger over mask mandates
After months of conflict in six counties over COVID school mask mandates, “my health is suffering” Lisa Peacock said.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
One Michigan mom rejoices, another worries as school mask mandates lift
This is the story of two moms, and two Michigans — one eager for a maskless return to a post-COVID normal, the other still wondering if it is still just too soon.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
University of Michigan team links ‘rogue’ antibodies to COVID blood clots
The research is early, but it may prove crucial in finding future treatment for potentially deadly COVID complications.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Gretchen Whitmer drops mask suggestion, Michigan getting ‘back to normal’
With COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations falling, Michigan health officials have drafted new mask guidelines which no longer recommend masking in many public indoor settings, including schools.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
The pandemic isn’t over. What Michigan needs to do if there’s a next wave.
Omicron struck like lightning. Now that it’s fading, educators are rethinking how to keep kids in school, hospitals are adjusting models and businesses are eying child-care alternatives for next time.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Oakland, Washtenaw, Wayne signal lift of COVID school mask mandates
The decisions follow similar actions in counties across Michigan and the nation to drop mask mandates as omicron recedes.