COVID-19 in Michigan: Changes, challenges, and triumphs one year later

The first cases of COVID-19 in Michigan were announced a year ago, leading to a year of changes, challenges, and glimmers of hope.

Will COVID-19 ever go away?

No one knows for sure. Scientists think the virus that causes COVID-19 may be with us for decades or longer, but that doesn’t mean it will keep posing the same threat.

Oakland County opens half-mile light trail as Covid memorial

An interactive half-mile in a Waterford Township park gave visitors like Brandy Sotke Boyd a chance to reflect.  She lost both her parents to COVID-19 within days.

Jail reform advocates want more PPE, vaccines for prisoners and staff

"We need some big changes now and fast," Patrick Gallagher said. "We need a real push to de-incarcerate people who could have been released all along."

1st Covid variant case found in Brighton gym member, officials say it is 50 % more transmissable

Gym owner James Gray says the past year they have asked gym members to monitor for symptoms and stay home if they are sick. He says they have also tripled cleaning protocols. But he added they aren't taking temperatures or enforcing the state's mask mandate. 

Meet one of Michigan's first COVID-19 patients

To everyone in Michigan, he was known as "Wayne County man with history of domestic travel." But to his family, he was a double-lung transplant named Paul DeWyse.

On Michigan's one-year COVID-19 anniversary, infections tick back up

One year ago today, Michigan identified its first cases of COVID-19. Since then, hundreds of thousands have been infected and another 16,000 died.

Mackinac Center sues state for nursing home death data

“It is essential that the public have access to data about nursing home deaths in Michigan,” said Steve Delie.. "Unfortunately, rather than simply providing anonymous data, the state has refused to shed light on this important matter."

COVID-19 showcased frontline medical workers' strength and bravery

Last March, as the number of COVID-19 cases began to skyrocket, it was all hands on deck at Michigan hospitals. Non-emergency procedures were put on hold. 

Smithsonian collects vial from first US coronavirus vaccine dose

As the nation marks the one-year anniversary of the novel coronavirus’ arrival in the U.S., the Smithsonian National Museum of American History has collected artifacts from the effort that could signal the beginning of the end of the pandemic.

Supply of Covid vaccines helped by J & J release to meet SE Michigan demand

"We are getting more vaccines but still less than what we need," said Dr.  Hammami. "And until we can get to the point where anyone can call and get vaccinated that same day, we are still not there yet."