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Michigan Flu & COVID Surge: Low Vaccinations Fuel Worry
3 Jan
Summary
- Respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and flu, are increasing in Michigan.
- Branch County reports low vaccination rates, exacerbating illness spread.
- Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility requests masks due to resident and staff infections.
As winter temperatures descend, Michigan is experiencing a notable increase in respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and influenza. Health officials express concern over declining vaccination rates across the state, which may contribute to the current surge. Branch County is particularly affected, reporting some of the lowest vaccination percentages statewide.
In response to a cluster of positive cases among residents and staff, Maple Lawn Medical Care Facility in Coldwater has begun requesting visitors wear masks. This measure aims to protect the health of those within the 114-bed facility. While other facilities in Branch County are not currently mandating masks, the situation underscores the ongoing risk posed by these prevalent viruses.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services advises individuals who have not received the latest COVID-19 vaccine to consider themselves high-risk. During Christmas week, COVID-19 accounted for 1.2% of emergency room visits statewide, leading to 279 hospital admissions, while the flu was linked to 4.5% of ER visits and 544 hospitalizations.
