The end of summer signals a new season — one of respiratory diseases. As cases and hospitalizations tick upward, here’s a short, smart update on new variants, new vaccines and the latest advice to stay safe.
Emergencies and Risks (COVID-19)
On second look, Michigan’s COVID death rate wasn’t so bad, study finds
If based solely by population, Michigan had the 10th worst COVID death rate of any state in the nation. But when adjusted for the state’s older and less healthy population, the state’s handling of the pandemic fares much better.
Racial disparities in Michigan COVID-19 deaths all but gone, panel finds
African Americans died from the coronavirus at about the same rate as whites in 2022, a state-appointed task force finds.
Detroit shifting COVID-19 testing, vaccinations to Detroit Health Department
Starting Feb. 27, COVID-19 vaccines and testing will be at the health department on Mack Avenue. Services at the Northwest Activities Center will be discontinued.
Gretchen Whitmer COVID report card: Lives saved, economy hurt, test scores fall
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s first term was defined by COVID. A Bridge analysis finds the facts are clear: Her orders spared lives, but did so at a cost to the economy and K-12 learning.
Eligible Detroiters can get new COVID-19 boosters starting Saturday
Bivalent boosters guard against newer and more contagious COVID variants like Omicron BA.4 and BA.5.
Pfizer seeks approval for COVID shot this fall aimed at Omicron strains
The vaccine is being updated to target newer strains that dominate U.S. COVID-19 infections, with approval sought as school year begins. Experts say COVID is moving closer to a flu-like virus with SOME seasonal predictability.
BA.5 spreading COVID in Michigan. Five things you should know.
The newest subvariant appears to duck vaccine immunity that, by now, is waning among many residents. And many doctors say they are seeing patients who keep getting reinfected.
Health Department offering COVID-19 vaccines for youngest Detroiters
Pediatric doses are available for children six months and up at two Detroit clinics.
Detroit opens COVID testing site with option for antiviral treatment
Detroiters who test positive at the city’s “Test-to-treat” site can be evaluated there and if eligible will receive free antiviral medication.