Monthly Archives: February 2021

(February 2, 2021 5:52 PM) The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is moving forward with plans to offer a voluntary COVID-19 testing program that will provide weekly tests to educators. The MI Safe Schools Testing Program stems from Gretchen Whitmer’s goal of having all Michigan school districts offer an in-person learning option for students by March 1.  The COVID-19 rapid antigen testing program is beginning today. The program is for Michigan educators from both public and private schools. MDHHS is providing testing supplies to schools at no cost. Approximately 300 schools and 9,000 staff have signed up for testing so far. “Voluntary testing of educators is part of the larger state strategy of keeping students, staff and communities safe while giving children the in-person instruction that they need to learn, develop and grow,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “Our dedicated teachers are among the frontline workers who have stepped up during this pandemic. Giving them an opportunity to be regularly tested recognizes their sacrifices and keeps everyone safer.” The rapid antigen testing program is modeled after Michigan’s successful pilot project that tested student-athletes and coaches who were participating in playoffs for high school fall sports such as…

(February 2, 2021 4:14 PM) In compliance with an order issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Jan. 23, the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) reminds everyone to mask up when working and riding on public transportation systems, rail, and van, bus and motorcoach service providers to reduce the spread of COVID-19. The CDC Order implements President Joe Biden's Executive Order 13998, Promoting COVID-19 Safety in Domestic and International Travel, "to save lives and allow all Americans, including the millions of people employed in the transportation industry, to travel and work safely." The CDC order is in addition to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) existing epidemic order that requires all transportation providers' staff and patrons to use face masks, and to enforce social distancing among all patrons to the extent feasible. Science-based measures are critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Mask-wearing is one of several proven life-saving measures, including social distancing, frequent hand washing, appropriate ventilation and timely testing, that can reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Requiring masks will protect America's transportation workers and passengers, help control the transmission of COVID-19, and aid in reopening America’s economy. In addition to the CDC order,…