Should Michiganders Worry About the New Covid-19 Spike in the U.S.?

Some states are seeing their high number of new daily Covid-19 cases since the pandemic began.

This is an important good news/bad news situation for us here in Michigan.  We are seeing very low daily numbers in our state.  However, this virus is showing a resurgence in many other states.  Saturday the Washington Post pointed published data showing that we are far from out of the woods,

Twenty-one states have seen an increase in their average daily new coronavirus cases this week in comparison to the previous week, according to data compiled by The Washington Post. New infections nationwide also surged.

Six of the 21 states that are showing increases in their new daily cases, have seen over 100% increases according to these numbers (as of June 13th, 2020) from NPR,

South Carolina with 643 new cases/day.  That's an increase of +200% from 2 weeks ago.
Arizona with 1,316 new cases/day.  That's an increase of +187% from 2 weeks ago.
Oregon 115 new cases/day.  That's an increase of +174% from 2 weeks ago.
Arkansas 428 new cases/day.  That's an increase of +142% from 2 weeks ago.
Oklahoma 145 new cases/day.  That's an increase of  +123% from 2 weeks ago.
Florida 1,542 new cases/day.  That's an increase of +104% from 2 weeks ago.

Should we worry about these numbers increase in other parts of the country here in Michigan?  Worry?  No.  Be cautious?  Absolutely.

Let's keep in mind that we will not likely have a vaccine until sometime in 2021 at the very earliest.  I think we can all agree that we don't want to experience another stay home order.  With that being said, it's up to us to be extra safe while we're in public in the state of Michigan.  This is not the time to think things are back to normal and ignore CDC guidelines.  In fact, it is quite the opposite.  Here's a reminder of CDC guidelines to help prevent the spread of covid-19:

Wash your hands often.  Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Avoid close contact.  Stay at least 6 feet from other people.

Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others.  You could spread COVID-19 to others even if you do not feel sick.

Cover coughs and sneezes.  If you are around others and do not have on your cloth face covering, remember to always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow and do not spit

Clean and disinfect.  Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.

Monitor Your Health.  Be alert for symptoms and take your temperature.  Get more info on this by clicking here.