Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and one of her daughters both received the first of their two COVID-19 vaccinations today from Dr. Joneigh Khaldun of the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services at Ford Field in Detroit.
Whitmer was eager to join those eligible for the shots after repeatedly calling all eligible Michigan residents to get the vaccine as soon as possible. The state of Michigan now allows anyone over the age of 16 to get the vaccine, a level that went into effect yesterday. Her 19-year old daughter, who attends the University of Michigan also got her first vaccine today immediately following her mother.
Gov. Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services also used the occasion of the clinic at Ford Field to urge Michigan residents who have hit the road this week to get tested for COVID-19 upon returning from Spring Break in an effort to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Whitmer and Khaldun reminded students and families traveling across Michigan, to other states or out of the country that they risk being exposed to and carrying COVID-19 with them. That in turn could fuel outbreaks within their households and the communities where they live or visit.
In efforts to make testing easier for travelers, the state has been offering 37 pop-up sites located throughout Michigan as part of the special testing program.
The governor says, “Brighter days are ahead with vaccinations being available to all Michiganders now, however, there are still critical efforts we must take to slow the spread of COVID-19,” adding, “COVID-19 remains a threat to our families and communities, and we encourage Michiganders to get tested for COVID-19 and are making it easier through these additional testing pop-up sites throughout the state. As always, every Michigander has a personal responsibility to do their part by wearing a mask, washing hands and maintaining social distancing to help us slow the spread of this virus.”
Michigan residents are also being encouraged to continue to wear a mask over their nose and mouth in public settings, avoid crowds and maintain social distancing of at least six feet from anyone they did not travel with. It is also suggested that they carry hand sanitizer of at least 60-percent alcohol in case washing their hands with soap and water is not readily available.
Both officials say it is recommended that those who have traveled for Spring Break get tested three to five days after their trip and stay home and self-quarantine during that time period.
