COVID-19: What You Need to Know
Editor’s note: This post was first published Jan. 28, 2020 and last updated June 30, 2022.
Cases of COVID-19 continue to be identified in Michigan. This is a rapidly developing situation and information is constantly changing and being updated as officials learn more.
June 30, 2022 update:
- The youngest Americans can get immunized against COVID, as children ages six months and up are now eligible for COVID-19 vaccines.
- You can order free COVID-19 at-home tests from the federal government by visiting covidtests.gov.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have updated quarantine and isolation guidelines.
- Antiviral pills are available to treat COVID-19, but they won’t be available to everyone right away. Learn more here.
- The CDC advises everyone age five and up is eligible for a booster dose. Find the CDC’s recommendations here.
- Federal health officials advise women who are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant should get vaccinated against COVID.
Click on a link below to jump to the section in this blog:
Staying Safe and Healthy in the Pandemic
The pandemic altered daily routines for many as precautions including frequently washing hands, wearing a face covering in public places and social distancing are still recommended in places of substantial or high transmission. When traveling, it’s important to take the health of yourself and others into consideration.
Though some doctor’s visits may have been postponed in the early months of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever to schedule a trip to the doctor – especially for children. Staying healthy and protected against common illnesses like the flu through vaccination is essential to reduce the burden on health care workers fighting the coronavirus.
Consider getting tested for COVID-19, or learning more about the types of tests available.
Many of the measures intended to fight the spread of coronavirus can also put people at risk of feeling isolated and for coping behaviors like substance abuse, which can lead to negative mental health effects. Online mental health resources are available to help.
The virus that causes COVID-19 is mainly spread when the respiratory droplets from an infected person’s coughs or sneezes land on the mouths and noses of people nearby and may be inhaled into the lungs. The CDC advises some COVID-19 infections can occur via airborne transmission through “exposure to virus in small droplets and particles that can linger in the air for minutes to hours,” and COVID-19 spreads less commonly through touching a contaminated surface.
The CDC believes people are most contagious when they are the sickest. According to current estimates, it takes two to 14 days for symptoms to appear.
There is a lot of variability in patient symptoms from COVID-19, and some individuals may show no symptoms at all.
COVID-19 has been reported to cause symptoms including fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting and diarrhea. Increasing shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion or inability to wake up, or bluish lips or face are emergency warning signs and are reasons to seek medical assistance without delay.
- The Difference Between COVID-19 and the Flu
- For Parents: 8 Symptoms to Watch for in Kids During the Pandemic
- The Differences Between Allergy and COVID-19 Symptoms
People at Risk for Serious Illness from COVID-19
According to the CDC, adults over the age of 65 — particularly those over the age of 85 — and people of any age with underlying medical conditions are at a higher risk of developing a serious illness from COVID-19.
Officials are continuing to learn more about COVID-19 every day. Based on what officials know now, adults with the following conditions are at an increased risk for severe illness from COVID-19:
- Cancer
- Chronic kidney disease
- COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Down Syndrome
- Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
- Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant
- Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 kg/m2 or higher but < 40 kg/m2)
- Severe Obesity (BMI ≥ 40 kg/m2)
- Pregnancy
- Sickle cell disease
- Smoking
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Adults with the following conditions may be at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19, according to the CDC:
- Asthma (moderate-to-severe)
- Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain)
- Cystic fibrosis
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines
- Neurologic conditions, such as dementia
- Liver disease
- Overweight (BMI > 25 kg/m2, but < 30 kg/m2)
- Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues)
- Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder)
- Type 1 diabetes mellitus
It is important to remember that stigma and discrimination occur when people associate an infectious disease, such as COVID-19, with a population or nationality. COVID-19 does not target people from specific populations, ethnicities, or racial backgrounds. People over the age of 80 should especially take precautions.
Take everyday precautions to keep space between yourself and others, wear a mask, avoid crowds and wash your hands often when you go out in public.
For people with underlying medical conditions, it’s important that you continue to take your medications as prescribed by your doctor to keep your conditions under control. Before changing a prescribed medication regimen, first talk to your doctor about your concerns and follow their advice. They have up-to-date information about the latest recommendations.
You may find these articles helpful:
- Pregnant Women Should Take Extra Precautions to Avoid COVID-19
- Why Medication Adherence is Important for People at a High Risk for COVID-19
- How to Self-Quarantine During the Coronavirus Outbreak
- Coronavirus Supply List: How to Prepare for a Quarantine
To prevent the spread of the virus, one should take the following precautions:
- Wear a mask in public settings in areas of substantial or high transmission, or if unvaccinated
- Frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol-based.
- Avoid close contact with anyone who has a fever and a cough.
- If you are sick with a respiratory illness, practice cough etiquette: maintain your distance, cover your coughs and sneezes with tissues or clothing, and wash your hands.
- If you have a fever, are coughing and have difficulty breathing, seek medical care and share any travel history with your doctor.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily, including tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
- Follow the CDC’s guidelines for quarantine and isolation
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified disinfectant products that have qualified for use against COVID-19, some of which are familiar household names. Coronaviruses are some of the easiest types of viruses to kill with the right disinfectant, according to the EPA. Make sure to read the label on the disinfectant product before using it, especially the portion about how long the product should remain on the surface.
In addition to hand washing, using the right disinfectant products is an important step to prevent and reduce the spread of the new coronavirus.
- How to Wear a Mask and Gloves the Right Way
- Safe Surface Disinfection Tips During the COVID-19 Pandemic
All Michiganders age six months old and up are eligible to receive a COVID vaccine. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines both require two doses to be effective against COVID-19 and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine requires one dose. However, children ages six months to four years old who receive a Pfizer vaccine need three doses.
At this time, the CDC do not recommend taking acetaminophen or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Tylenol or Advil prior to receiving the COVID-19 vaccines to prevent any vaccination symptoms. Patients who take these medications as a part of their current treatment plans should consult their primary care providers first before making any changes.
The CDC advises everyone age five and up is eligible for a booster dose.
- Learn more from the CDC
- How Booster Shots Keep Your Immunity Strong
Vaccines and booster doses are available through local health departments, hospitals and health systems, commercial pharmacies and primary care providers. Federally qualified health centers across Michigan are also offering vaccines.
- Find a vaccination location by visiting vaccines.gov.
Seeking Medical Care for COVID-19
The CDC advises you to call your health care provider for medical advice if you have been in close contact with someone with COVID-19 or if you live in a community where there is ongoing spread of COVID-19 and you develop a fever and symptoms.
Tell the health care worker about your recent travels or contacts, and the professional will decide if you need to be tested for COVID-19. The guidelines that clinicians are using to decide who to test are being re-evaluated daily.
As there is no treatment for COVID-19, people who have a mild illness may be able to isolate from others and care for themselves at home.
The CDC advises those being evaluated for COVID-19 and those who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 to monitor their symptoms. If your illness is worsening — for example, if you have difficulty breathing — the CDC advises you call your health care provider and tell them you either have or are being evaluated for COVID-19.
If you have a medical appointment, call the health care provider and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the health care provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.
Before entering the health facility, put on a facemask to protect others in the office or waiting room from possibly being exposed. Ask your health care provider to call the health department.
If you have or are being evaluated for COVID-19 and need to call 911 for an emergency, notify the dispatcher of your status regarding the coronavirus. If possible, the CDC advises putting on a facemask before help arrives.
- The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has a statewide coronavirus hotline. Call 1-888-535-6136 to speak with health officials from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
- Find a free testing site in Michigan by visiting Michigan.gov/CoronavirusTest.
- MDHHS will also answer questions by email by contacting [email protected] from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
Health care leaders are encouraging patients to use telehealth options in order to access virtual care during the coronavirus outbreak. For patients with mild symptoms including headaches, stomachaches and vomiting, painful urination, cold and flu symptoms, eye irritations and mild rashes and injuries, virtual care provides a convenient way to access health care professionals.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network offer two options to access virtual care: the 24-hour Nurse Line and Blue Cross Online Visits.
Additionally, BCBSM is offering a free crisis hotline for emotional support for members and non-members at 833-848-1764, which is staffed by BCBSM’s behavioral health partner New Directions.
- Addressing Myths About Virtual Health Care Visits
- Exploring Virtual Therapy with Telehealth
- Virtual Treatment: Online Support Options Helping People with Substance Use Disorders
Additionally, ask your primary care provider if they are available to you via telemedicine through their own patient portals or other means.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network have expanded their insurance coverage in numerous ways to help members confront the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network will waive all copays, deductibles and coinsurance for COVID-19 vaccines to commercial members.
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network will cover the cost of the third dose of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines for the broad population once it is authorized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. This applies to fully insured commercial plan members. Employer groups subject to the Affordable Care Act are required to cover administration of vaccine doses. Blue Cross will work with employers to guide them through applicable requirements.
- Blue Cross and Blue Care Network covered all COVID-19 treatment through September 30, 2021. Member cost sharing is also waived.
- Blue Cross and Blue Care Network are waiving member cost sharing for physician-authorized COVID-19 testing and resulting services as of March 18, 2020 in line with the Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Testing and associated services must be consistent with CDC guidelines.
- Blue Cross and Blue Care Network are waiving early medication refill limits on 30-day and 90-day prescription maintenance medications.
Additionally, Blue Cross and Blue Care Network have taken several actions to help customers and members through the uncertainty of the pandemic:
- Donating $1 million to be used for emergency personal protective equipment (PPE) kits for Michigan dentists
- Returning more than $21 million in one-time credits to more than 180,000 members with commercially insured individual health care plans
- Returning more than $100 million in credits to senior members, employer group customers and 2019 individual plan subscribers on their health, dental and vision premiums
- Adding two new Blue Care Network plans that simplify coverage and provide more clarity on out-of-pocket costs for members
- Holding rates on plans offered through the individual marketplace in Michigan to moderate rate increases for 2021
- Supporting Michigan-based physician organizations and practices in their efforts treating COVID-19 patients
- Relaxing some administrative requirements to allow Michigan’s physician organizations and health systems to spend more time treating patients and hasten their diagnoses and treatment
Read more about how to enroll in a health care plan:
After the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 was first detected in China, the first U.S. cases of COVID-19 were reported in January 2020.
Here are the number of COVID-19 cases and associated deaths as of June 30, 2022:
- 546,785,542 cases and 6,334,456 deaths globally.
- 87,545,440 cases and 1,017,035 deaths in the U.S.
- 2,606,431 cases and 36,918 deaths from COVID-19 in Michigan.
Cases of the virus continue to be reported as the outbreak spreads.
- For the latest information on COVID-19 restrictions in Michigan, visit the state’s website.
For Michigan residents, there are numerous resources available for those in need of help during the pandemic:
Travel Guidelines and Restrictions
Traveling can increase your risk of spreading and contracting COVID-19; however the CDC advises fully vaccinated individuals can travel at low risk to themselves. The CDC asks travelers to consider their risk of exposure before going on any trip.
The CDC advises if you have traveled out-of-state or out-of-country to follow any state or local government requirement for self-quarantine; understanding that even if you do not show symptoms, you can spread COVID-19 for up to 14 days after being exposed.
- Find the CDC’s travel guidance for fully vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals here.
Additionally, older adults and travelers with underlying health issues may want to avoid situations that put them at an increased risk for more severe disease — including avoiding crowded places, non-essential travel like long plane trips and avoiding cruise ship travel.
The CDC considers the novel coronavirus to be a serious public health threat. The strain of coronavirus behind the current outbreak is named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes is named COVID-19. This strain of coronavirus was previously unknown to health officials.
There are multiple types of coronaviruses that health officials are already familiar with, including strains that cause the common cold, the strain behind severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and the strain behind Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). The term “coronavirus” refers to a group of viruses that have crown-like spikes on their surface.
World Health Organization officials believe the coronavirus outbreak began at a large seafood and live animal market in the city of Wuhan, China, in 2019 and that it likely spread at first from animals to humans. Now the virus has spread from person to person across the globe.
Find answers to frequently asked questions here:
Related:
- Are You Washing Your Hands the Right Way?
- Four Reasons Everyone Should Get a Flu Shot
- Your Roadmap to Conquering Flu Season
Photo credit: Moyo Studio
How does the suggestion to…..Avoid consuming raw or undercooked animal products. help stop the spread of the Coronavirus??
Hi Brian,
We removed this reference from the blog. Thank you – Julie
If it’s a EW virus why is it lusted on a Lysol Soray Disinfectant can?
Per CDC.gov/coronavirus, the scientific name is 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV). A novel coronavirus is a new strain of coronavirus that has not been previously identified in humans. The 2019-nCoV has not been previously detected prior to the outbreak reported in Wuhan, China. There are several strains of coronaviruses that health officials are already aware of, like the strain that causes SARS, and several strains that cause the common cold.
can the virus live on objects, clothing, plastics how long can the virus survive?
Hi Gayelinn,
According to the CDC, current evidence suggests that novel coronavirus may remain viable for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials. It is theoretically possible that one can touch a freshly contaminated surface and then touch one’s face and thus transfer the infection. However, per the CDC, transmission of novel coronavirus to persons from surfaces contaminated with the virus has not been documented. Transmission of coronavirus occurs much more commonly through respiratory droplets from a cough or sneeze. Still, cleaning of visibly dirty surfaces followed by disinfection is a best practice measure for prevention of COVID-19 and other viral respiratory illnesses in households and community settings.
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection.html
– Julie
I had SARS in Dec. 2002 after traveling in China. What are my chances of contracting the current coronavirus now ?
Hi John,
COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that are common in people and many different species of animals, including camels, cattle, cats, and bats. Rarely, animal coronaviruses can infect people and then spread between people such as with MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV, and now with this new virus (named SARS-CoV-2). It is unclear at this time if previous exposure to SARS would offer any sort of immunity against this new strain of coronavirus.
– Julie
What do screening measures consist of?
Hi, Pat. Because this process is new, we have been in contact with health officials and providers. Here is our understanding of how the process will work: The provider decides if the test is appropriate for that patient based on symptoms and history. The provider should call the health department to discuss testing the patient. Patients will be tracked as the provider fills out a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services form to list symptoms. After the provider and health department agree to give the test, the provider tells the patient how to receive it. Let us know if you have any additonal questions. Thank you, Julie
if traveling out of an airport, will they be taking temperatures of passengers waiting to board a plane and or coming off a plane traveling with in the united states.?
Are any schools district been more Hit by that influenza I like to be more inform about this’d epidemic that it’s looking very dangerous and why it’s speeding so repeatedly what makes spread so repeatedly I would like to take time to thanks to Miss Amy Barczy for taking time to share a very important information about this’d very dangerous virus I would like to receive more information about what it’s been done to keep us safe from this very dangerous virus and what other steps to take to keep safe for me and my family, thanks u for a very important information I hope you can make more time to share more important information
Hi, Carlos. Our Coronavirus blog is a great resource and is updated multiple times a day with the latest statistics from Johns Hopkins University, the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just follow this link.
Thank you, Julie
No, up to 24 days without symptoms now.
Hi Duddly, According to the CDC, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html
– Julie
Keep me updated on this virus
Hi, Kenneth. Our Coronavirus blog is a great resource and is updated multiple times a day with the latest statistics from Johns Hopkins University, the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Just follow this link.
Thank you, Julie
What strain of flu is it in 2019 and 2020
Hi Brenda,
The virus mentioned in this blog is officially named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes is named COVID-19. Unlike the flu, there is currently no vaccine for this strain of coronavirus. Let us know if you have more questions.
– Julie
Thank you for the information. Our leaders at the Federal level seem to not have a clue.
Thank you Blue Cross for the timely and informative information!!!!
Can Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan comment on telemental health please? Will you cover continuing therapy using other HIPAA-compliant platforms such as doxy.me and VSee Clinic during this emergency?
Hi Merry,
We appreciate your patience during this unprecedented situation. We’re working on an answer to your question.
– Julie
Hi Merry,
Will you let us know if you are a member or provider so we can better answer your question? Thanks, Julie
Hi, Merry,
We recently announced the addition of online behavioral health visits to the list of telehealth services we are covering in full for our members with existing telehealth benefits. These free services will be offered through at least June 30. You can learn more about our virtual services here: https://www.mibluesperspectives.com/news/blue-cross-blue-shield-of-michigan-blue-care-network-extend-no-cost-telehealth-services-to-june-30-and-include-behavioral-health-providers/ We also offer a free crisis hotline for emotional support that’s available to the public at 833.848.1764. Thank you, Julie
For over 30 years I have been prescribed plaquenil for my RA. Today the President told the world that it could treat COVID-19. I tried to call to get my script filled but was told it wasn’t allowed until into April. You advise that people prepare but I am worried that your limitations on refill may mean that by April there won’t be an plaquenil available.
Hi Patience,
We’d be happy to help answer questions. If you could provide some additional information at this link, a member of our team will reach out to you directly.
– Julie
I am a provider of mental health services and I cannot find anything about if BCBS of MI is covering Telehealth for its members and associated guidelines anywhere.
Hi Lavina,
We appreciate your patience during this unprecedented time. We are working to find an answer to your question.
– Julie
Hi, Lavina,
We recently announced the addition of online behavioral health visits to the list of telehealth services we are covering in full for our members with existing telehealth benefits. These free services will be offered through at least June 30. You can learn more about our virtual services here: https://www.mibluesperspectives.com/news/blue-cross-blue-shield-of-michigan-blue-care-network-extend-no-cost-telehealth-services-to-june-30-and-include-behavioral-health-providers/ We also offer a free crisis hotline for emotional support that’s available to the public at 833.848.1764.
Thank you, Julie
How can BCBSM Small Group Employer Plan holder can manage the lay off of its employees, are there any new layoff provisions being made? Can employees stay on the employer plan if employers chose to still pay for them, if so for how long?
Hi Adriana,
We’d be happy to help answer any questions you have. If you could provide us with some additional information at this link, a member of our team will reach out to you directly. – Julie
I work at GM and they shut down the plant, will BCBS terminate our coverage while on temporary layoff ?
Hi Ashley,
We’d be happy to help answer any questions you have. If you could provide us with some information at this link a member of our team will reach out to you directly.
Thank you,
Julie
How are celebrities/ sports stars getting tested yet I can’t get one? I’ve been home 7 days to today with fever/chills/body aches/upset stomach. Also have a mild cough. I’m age 56/type 2 diabetic who seems to catch things easy. I work for SSA and up to last Fri was exposed to the public daily at close proximity. Mercy Urgent Care gave me inhaler & steroids -made me feel I was overacting. Tried to follow up with PC Doctor but received no call back???
We need more tests!!!!!! My life and Others are just as important as some Congressman or Celebrity!!!
I have asthma, on meds and Two inhalers I also have a neurological disorder Am I at HIGH RISK FOR THE COVID-19! I WORK AT A POSTAL PLANT.
Hi S.C., We understand you’re concerned. If you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should call your health care provider for proper guidance. – Julie
Last updated at 9 a.m.!
Hi Kathy,
We’re updating this post throughout the day. Hope you find it helpful! – Julie
If you have previously tested positive for Covid-19, been in quarantine for 14 days, and symptoms have stopped, are you considered cleared/healed? Also, are you able to become re-infected with the virus again?
Hi NaTasha,
The first thing you should do is ask your primary care physician’s advice regarding your personal treatment plan. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people who have had COVID-19 can discontinue self-isolation if they’ve been fever-free for 72 hours without the use of medication, other symptoms have improved and at least seven days have passed since symptoms first appeared. We know that with other coronaviruses, being infected confers some future immunity. However because COVID-19 is new and not yet fully understood, it’s impossible to know with any certainty if individuals can become re-infected at some future point with this particular coronavirus strain. Hope that is helpful.
– Julie
why and how is death rate more in males than females?…just curious to know. Thanks!
How do I know phone call is from bcbs
Got scam call from blue cross
They said call FTC
They are investigating
I received a $60 bill from a Walk-in clinic where I was swabbed for Covid. I did test positive . My understanding is that all fees are supposed to be waived. Please advise. Thank you.
Hi Carrie,
We’d be happy to help answer any questions you have. If you could provide us with some additional information at this link, a member of our team will reach out to you directly.
Telemedicine is making a very positive contribution to healthcare during this pandemic, and is being used in a variety of ways. Thanks for sharing. Visit www.patientmd.com
Stay home
https://bit.ly/2ThHZzV
Good Morning,
I have read/heard that BCBS-MI is providing Senior Support. My husband and I are BCBS-MI Medicare Advantage members and Seniors. How do we apply for Senior Support? Thank you,
Hi DJ, These programs are currently available to Medicare Advantage members. Meal deliveries are provided to specific members who have been identified as being socially isolated with a chronic condition. To see if you qualify for this program, please call the number on the back of your card. Thank you, Julie
I’ve seen a quickly presented message on bottom of TV screen explaining amount of times virus will live on various items, especially purchased ones, like plastic bags, cardboard boxes(cereal enclosed), xzclothing, skin, in air after a cough or sneeze. Would like to see time length.
Hi Beverly, There is some information on how long the coronavirus lives on surfaces in this blog. https://www.mibluesperspectives.com/2020/04/17/safe-surface-disinfection-tips-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/
Hope it helps! – Julie
Hello… I was told that BCBS is offering such items as masks, thermometers, etc for members who qualify. Im trying to reach the area that I need to contact for that info.
Thanks
These programs are currently available to Medicare Advantage members. To see if you qualify for this program, please call the number on the back of your card. Let us know if you have further questions!
If I travel out of the state of Michigan this weekend, the weekend of June 18, 2020, am I required to quarantine/isolate myself when I return to Michigan?
If so, how long must I do so if I work for a public school district?
Hi Bob,
There are no restrictions when it comes to traveling outside the state and there is no requirement to self-quarantine once you get back. However, if you do come in contact with someone with COVID-19 or symptoms or start to experience symptoms yourself, you are advised to self-quarantine for 14 days. You should contact your employer to see if they have additional recommendations beyond this advice.
Hope it helps!
I live in Indiana and am supposed to attend a family reunion in central lake, MI. Are there any restrictions on my coming up??
Hi Robert,
At this time there are no restrictions for people traveling into Michigan, although there are restrictions on where you can go and do once you get here. Find up-to-date details here: https://www.mibluesperspectives.com/2020/03/18/coronavirus-outbreak-what-you-need-to-know/
My daughter’s family (U.S. citizens) will come back to Michigan from Switzerland soon. Are they supposed to have 14-day quarantine upon arrival?
With the major spikes going on in Florida over the past week and with them setting record numbers in confirmed cases, will Michigan be following suit and require those traveling to here from Florida to be quarantined for 14 days?
I winter in Mississippi and have stayed here do to the virus. Is it safe to travel back to Michigan now? Will I neen to quarantine?
They cannot refuse service for people with disabilities. It is ILLEGAL.
Shouldn’t it say updated July 22?
Just trying to confirm that michigan needs to quarantine for two weeks from certain states ? Or was that just ingham county mi ? So confused…
Thank you !
Hi Patti! The CDC now advises if you test positive for coronavirus to self-isolate for 10 days, not 14; however a 14-day quarantine is still recommended if you think you have been exposed to COVID-19.Thank you, Candice
does a florida resident visiting michigan need to be quaranteed?
Hi Kenneth, according to the CDC, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html Thank you, Candice
can you travel from florida to michigan now ??no restrictions ??
Hello! According to the CDC, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html Thank you, Candice
Can NYers travel to Michigan? Do they require quarantine?
Great question! The CDC has urged residents of New York to refrain from non-essential domestic travel. There is a mandatory 14-day quarantine in place for travelers coming to New York from 31 high-risk states. If these travelers are coming to Michigan, the CDC recommends the following, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html Thank you, Candice
We had hoped to travel from Tx to MI in Sept. Will we need to isolate in a hotel before traveling around MI? We planned to visit family and friends at a distance. Preferably out doors. We also wanted to look at some property.
So far we have been feeling fine. If we become sick at all, we would not travel.
Hi Debra, the community-level spread of COVID-19 has prompted the CDC to ask travelers to consider their risk of exposure before going on any trip. The CDC recommends the following, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html. We think you might also find this information helpful as your planning your next trip: https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/2020/06/18/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-this-summer/ Thank you, Candice
In flying into MI
Am I required to quarantine?
I’m healthy, 80, and coming from FL
I’m a resident of MA and FL
Coming to MI because a loved one is ill with Cancer
We’re so sorry to hear about this diagnosis for your loved one, Richard. We recommend touching base with your loved one as well as their provider or care facility to see if they have any requirements in place for visitors. They should be able to point you in the right direction! Thank you, Candice
I am moving to Michigan from California in spring 2021. Are there covid19 new rules I need to know prior to flying in? Where can I keep updated? Thank you.
Hope
Hi Hope, we provide frequent updates in this blog post here, and you can also locate any local guidelines here: https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/. In regards to your travel concern, the CDC recommends the following, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html. We wish you the best of luck during your move! Thank you, Candice
Is kitchen staff at restaurants required to wear mask while cooking?
Per recent Executive Order, Michiganders are required to wear a face-covering whenever they are in an indoor public space. Learn more about how masks can protect you and others here: https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus/0,9753,7-406-100997_100998—,00.html – Candice
This was a really wonderful post, I liked it. Telemedicine is making a very positive contribution to healthcare during the pandemic and is being used in a variety of ways. Thanks for sharing.
I’m considering traveling to Michigan to visit a friend. I’m from Virginia, would I have to be self quarantined if I’m there for 4 days. And would the flights be canceled before I can return home
Hi Esther! Great question. The community-level spread of COVID-19 has prompted the CDC to ask travelers to consider their risk of exposure before going on any trip. The CDC recommends the following, “depending on your travel history, you will be asked to stay home for a period of 14 days from the time you left an area with widespread or ongoing community spread (Level 3 Travel Health Notice).” https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/after-travel-precautions.html. We think you might also find this information helpful as your planning your next trip: https://www.ahealthiermichigan.org/2020/06/18/how-to-stay-safe-while-traveling-this-summer/ Thank you, Candice
Please take all this information seriously. Don’t wait until someone you love gets it and dies.
Very helpful source of information, thank you
You’re welcome, Katie! We update this blog post daily, so make sure to check back soon! – Candice
Once I get the 2nd shot and wait the 2 weeks, and am 100% covered, I will not get Covid or can not pass Covid on to anyone. Is that true?
Hi Mary Lou,
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently issued guidelines for what you’re able to do after you’re fully vaccinated as well as precautions you should still take. We hope you find it helpful: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/fully-vaccinated.html
I have scheduled a March 23, 2021 Covid 19 vaccine (J&J) in Florida at a local pharmacy (Winn Dixie).
I need confirmation BC Select HMO will pay for the vaccine please.
Hi John,
You should not have to pay anything to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. There are two primary costs – the cost of the vaccine, and the cost of administering it to patients like you. The federal government will be paying for the initial cost of the vaccine, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is paying for the administration for its members. No member should receive any bill. Most employer health plans are picking up the cost of administering the shots, thereby relieving members of any out-of-pocket cost.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network will waive all copays, deductibles and coinsurance for COVID-19 vaccines for commercial members.
For Medicare beneficiaries, the government is paying for the vaccine and administration of the vaccine.
I have had covid. Does my insurance pay for the test to see if I have protection?
Hi Mary, Blue Cross will pay for FDA-authorized or approved COVID-19 antibody tests that have been ordered by a health care provider who determines testing is medically appropriate.