The latest figures bring the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan to 535,534 and deaths to 13,804\u00a0since the virus was first detected in March, according to tracking by the state Department of Health and Human Services.
Michigan on Saturday added 1,932 new cases of the coronavirus and 103 deaths linked to COVID-19. The latest figures bring the total number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan to 535,534 and deaths to 13,804 since the virus was first detected in March, according to tracking by the state Department of Health and Human Services. Of the Saturday deaths,90 were identified during a delayed records review. The state recorded 430 deaths this week, a decrease from 756 deaths from the virus last week. The weekly record of 808 deaths was recorded in mid-December. The state also recorded 16,425 new cases this week, another decline from 21,455 new cases last week. At the end of November, the state established the weekly record of 50,892 cases. The state has opened up vaccination opportunities to all Michigan residents over the age of 65 and to front-line workers and teachers, but many health departments and hospitals say they do not have enough vaccine to meet the demand. ► More: Some Michigan hospital systems running short of COVID-19 vaccine, curtailing appointments The current phase will allow for the 65 and older age group to receive a vaccine as well as front-line workers such as first responders, some state and federal workers and jail and prison staff. Pre-K through 12th-grade teachers and childcare providers also will be eligible for vaccinations. Vaccines continue to be distributed to health care workers and nursing home residents. Supplies are limited and are running out within seven days of Michigan receiving them, and „that is a good thing,“ Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said. „Please be patient, we do not have enough vaccines and it takes time to administer, but we are building quickly and it looks like we’re going to be coming into more vaccines soon,” Whitmer said Wednesday.
