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Whitmer Says Flu Cases Could Hurt COVID-19 Response

Courtesy
/
Michigan Executive Office of the Governor
Governor Gretchen Whitmer receives her flu vaccine Tuesday, August 25, 2020 in Lansing, Mich. The governor set a goal of getting an additional million people in Michigan to get a flu shot compared to last year.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has set a goal of getting an additional million people in Michigan to get a flu shot compared to last year.

Whitmer said Tuesday she and state health officials set the goal because the flu poses an additional risk this year.

“Until there is a coronavirus vaccine, we must do everything we can in our power to protect one another,” Whitmer said. “Nobody is immune to this virus, so remember: wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and go get your flu shot.” 

Whitmer said that’s because health clinics and hospitals could be overwhelmed if there’s a spike in COVID-19 cases during flu season.     

 “The COVID-19 pandemic remains a very real threat. It is still very real across the state of Michigan. It’s a threat to our families. It is a threat to our healthcare workers and people on the front lines. And it is a threat to our economy.”  

The governor also said she won’t be pushed into reopening gyms, theaters, and bowling alleys in the southern part of the state. They have been allowed to operate since June in northern Michigan.

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