Coronavirus in Michigan: Here’s where we stand as of Sunday

(WDIV)

DETROIT – State officials reported more than 28,000 coronavirus (COVID-19) recoveries Saturday.

Here’s what happened Saturday:

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State reports 28,234 recoveries

State officials reported 28,234 COVID-19 recoveries Saturday, up from 22,686 last week.

Officials provide an update each Saturday.

Money raised through viral ‘Big Gretch’ put back into Detroit

A local rapper’s song about Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has gotten so popular, he’s using it to give back to the community, through the song ‘Big Gretch’.

GMac Cash raised money to buy the governor new glasses, but when she wouldn’t accept them, he put the money to good use.

Death toll reaches 4,880

The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus (COVID-19) in Michigan has risen to 50,504 as of Saturday, including 4,880 deaths, state officials report.

That number is up from 49,582 confirmed cases and 4,825 deaths Friday.

The official recovery total is 28,234.

Ford announces testing for employees ahead of reopening

Ford Motor Company announced Saturday that it will test symptomatic employees for COVID-19 in southeastern Michigan to help prevent the spread of the virus as employees return to work.

Ford officials say that contracts have been signed with Beaumont Health to “quickly test hourly and salaried employees with suspected symptoms of COVID-19."

MSU students celebrate graduation during virtual ceremony

Earlier this month graduating Michigan State University (MSU) students would have walked across the stage to receive their diploma.

Instead they were honored in a virtual ceremony on Saturday due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Free emotional support counseling available

Michigan residents can receive free, confidential emotional support counseling over the phone amid the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Individuals can call the COVID-19 hotline at 888-535-6136 to speak with a Michigan Stay Well counselor for free ("option 8″). The hotline is available all day and night.

Explore Michigan virtually

How about some good news?

While you are social distancing, you can explore Michigan virtually.

The #VirtualPureMichigan campaign will include live cameras showing places such as Traverse City, Holland and Frankenmuth, as well as virtual tours of museums, and other related educational experiences.

How COVID-19 Spreads

Person-to-person spread

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

  • Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
  • Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Can someone spread the virus without being sick?

  • Spread is possible before people show symptoms. People who are not showing symptoms can still be carrying the virus and can still pass it on to other people.

Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How easily the virus spreads

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.

Prevention and Treatment

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

MORE: Beaumont Health launches coronavirus hotline for patients with symptoms

People who think they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their healthcare provider immediately.

Question about coronavirus? Ask Dr. McGeorge here.

Read more about coronavirus here.