Sweeping new reforms are being put in place to fight the upsurge in COVID-19 cases. Governor Whitmer announced last night that restrictions from the state department of Health and Human Services are aimed at saving lives. Starting Wednesday, and lasting for three weeks, all in-class instruction at high schools and colleges will be suspended, as will organized sports and group exercise classes. Pre-school in-person classes through the 8th grade will be allowed to continue. Gyms will be allowed open only for individual exercise. The sports ban does not include professional and college games. The order does close casinos, movie theatres and bowling alleys. Restaurants and bars will have to halt eat-in dining, but will be allowed to offer outdoor dining and take-out orders. Allowed to stay open are hair salons and retail shops. Governor Whitmer said the current situation is dire and citizens must join forces to bring it under control.
Michigan recorded its worst week yet in the Pandemic with 44,019 new cases and 416 deaths reported over the previous seven days.
The upsurge has universities and colleges scrambling and students confused. Schools are setting up guidelines for students who will be returning to campus after the Thanksgiving break. Two private colleges, Alma and Albion, sent their students home this past weekend. All students returning to school in the new year will be required to be tested before classes resume.