(WWJ) -- The first confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been discovered in the state of Michigan, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Tuesday night.
Whitmer addressed the state Tuesday, saying she has signed an executive order declaring a state of emergency. She says officials are "taking every step" to slow the spread of the virus, which officials have been calling a "rapidly evolving situation."
The cases are in an Oakland County woman who has a recent history of international travel and a Wayne County man who has recently traveled domestically. Both individuals are middle-aged and are currently in the hospital, officials said.
Chief Deputy Director for Health and Human Services Dr. Joneigh S. Khaldun says the tests were performed Tuesday at the state lab in Lansing. The test results still have to be confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, but Khaldun says officials are proceeding with the public health investigation and response as if they are positive.
Whitmer says it is crucial for Michiganders to take the virus seriously and continue to take preventative measures, including washing hands frequently.
"We're Michiganders. We're tough," Whitmer said. "We know how to take care of each other. We will get through this, but for now, please make sure your family and friends are taking every preventative measure available to keep yourselves safe. Talk to your friends, and your family and your co-workers and encourage them to make smart choices. We in state government will continue our work to take every necessary precaution to keep Michiganders safe."
State officials announced earlier Tuesday the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) activated the Michigan Joint Information Center (JIC) today to coordinate state agency communications efforts in response to the potential spread of COVID-19.
The state has set up a user-friendly website to provide coronavirus updates.
Officials report 77 people in Michigan have been tested for coronavirus, with 57 results coming back negative and two positive. 18 results are still pending. To date, 493 people have been referred for assessment and/or monitoring, while 87 are currently beeing monitored.
COVID-19 symptoms -- which include fever, cough and shortness of breath -- may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the website.
Officials are expected to announce additional recommendations to mitigate the spread of the virus Wednesday afternoon.
Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 for the latest updates on this story. >>> LISTEN LIVE!
