Michigan tops 4,000 coronavirus-related deaths

The state of Michigan has surpassed 4,000 deaths due to complications from the COVID-19 virus. Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services listed the state’s death total Saturday at 4,020. It says there are 43,207 confirmed cases of the virus.

On Friday, there were more than 42,300 confirmed cases and 3,866 deaths.

Most have been in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties, which are in the Detroit area.

The city of Detroit reported 1,085 deaths and 9,322 confirmed cases Saturday.

The total number of reported deaths increased by 40 from Friday, but nearly half occurred more than a week ago, according to Detroit Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair.

Several victims died in late March.

The actual number of deaths attributed to Friday is six, the lowest since March 25, Fair said.

For most people, the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Saturday that she signed an executive order extending safety measures at grocery stores and pharmacies until May 29.

The order includes requiring customers — who can medically tolerate a face covering — to wear one when entering a grocery store or pharmacy. Grocery stores and pharmacies also must allocate at least two hours per week of shopping time for people vulnerable to the virus.

Employers also must notify workers if a fellow employee tests positive for COVID-19.