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Michigan Department of Health and Human Services describes Omicron variant spread as moving in a “deeply concerning direction”

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Michigan.gov
Michigan Department of Health & Human Services

MDHHS requesting additional ventilators from the National Strategic Stockpile

The COVID-19 virus is impacting Michigan’s population differently during this fourth wave of infections.

“In the past seven days, 30 to 39-year olds are experiencing our highest case rates.”

Elizabeth Hertel is Director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

“Overall, only about 2% of people who are fully vaccinated have been reported with a breakthrough infection. Based on data from most health systems in Michigan, three out of every four COVID patients are unvaccinated.”

Last year, there was a reprieve following the Thanksgiving holiday. Not so, this year with a record number of cases pushing hospitals beyond capacity.

“We’re working with our regional healthcare coalitions and hospitals to supplement mechanical ventilators to meet this surge of demand in ICUs.”

Hertel says the department is tapping into the state’s supply. A request has been made to access additional ventilators from the National Strategic Stockpile.

Patrick joined WGVU Public Media in December, 2008 after eight years of investigative reporting at Grand Rapids' WOOD-TV8 and three years at WYTV News Channel 33 in Youngstown, Ohio. As News and Public Affairs Director, Patrick manages our daily radio news operation and public interest television programming. An award-winning reporter, Patrick has won multiple Michigan Associated Press Best Reporter/Anchor awards and is a three-time Academy of Television Arts & Sciences EMMY Award winner with 14 nominations.
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