John,

I’m reaching out to you now to ensure you have accurate and up-to-date information to protect your health and know that we’re doing everything to keep Michiganders safe and healthy.

As of this morning, there are now 16 cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in the state, and in seven counties.

We know that the symptoms of COVID-19 include a fever, cough, and shortness of breath -- and we know that this respiratory illness is spreading through person-to-person contact.

The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:

• If you think you have been exposed to COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.
• Replace handshakes with elbow bumps.
• Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.

• The Michigan Medicaid Program will waive copays and cost-sharing for testing and health care treatment related to the coronavirus disease.
• A number of insurers, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Blue Care Network of Michigan, Priority Health, CVS Health, McLaren, and Meridian will also fully cover the cost of medically-necessary COVID-19 tests for members.
• I signed an executive order that will close all K-12 school buildings from Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 5 and cancel all events over 250 people and all assemblages in shared spaces with over 250 people beginning on Friday, March 13 at 5:00 P.M. and ending on Sunday, April 5 at 5:00 P.M.