Coronavirus Michigan

The state’s top doctor says Michigan has enough supplies “for now,” but is limited in specialized masks and other items if coronavirus hits. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer activates emergency center in “abundance of caution.”

Would schools close for weeks at a time? Would lessons be online? What if a student travels overseas? Michigan districts are creating protocols on the fly to address a possible outbreak.

Health experts say the COVID-19 coronavirus is on its way. As hospitals and health systems prepare, simple steps can help protect you and your loved ones.

A CDC official said the virus’s spread to the United States is inevitable, which is why Michigan officials are preparing as they battle flu cases. In one Detroit hospital ‘negative pressure rooms’ await patients.   

The Oakland County resident had a travel history to China, said a state health department spokeswoman, who added that the person was not stopped or screened at Detroit Metro airport. 

As health officials marshal resources to contain a new  coronavirus, which hasn’t hit Michigan, there are simple steps anyone can take to reduce risks. You don’t need special equipment. 

A small lab at the University of Michigan is one of five U.S. sites that monitor influenza viruses to gauge vaccine effectiveness. The lab also is monitoring coronavirus developments as part of a federal effort.

A widespread flu virus in the state poses more of a threat right now, but health officials remain vigilant for cases of coronavirus in Michigan.

State health officials say two people in Washtenaw County and one in Macomb have  “mild” symptoms of the illness, but that a diagnosis remains days away.