With many people emboldened to ditch face masks following the Michigan Supreme Court ruling last week striking down executive orders by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, the Michigan State Medical Society is making it clear that to do so is a risky proposition at this juncture.
The Michigan State Medical Society issued a public statement this week from Dr. S. Bobby Mukkamala, MD, president of the Society, which represents more than 15,000 physicians and physicians-in-training, in support of preventive measures to control the spread of COVID-19:
“As coronavirus hospitalizations and new cases are rising, the Michigan State Medical Society encourages Michigan residents to diligently wear masks in public, wash your hands, and practice social distancing. When practiced consistently, these simple strategies are effective tools in containing the spread of the disease.
Early on, Michiganders rose to the challenge of ‘bending the curve,’ but the threat of this virus is not over. As of October 5, 2020, Michigan reported nearly 129,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and more than 6,800 deaths, and recent data show a seven-day average of 884 new cases, the highest since April 29th.
If we are to continue to make progress, support our communities, and not negate the many efforts and sacrifices made by our health care workforce, businesses, and citizens, we must use the COVID-19 toolbox – masks (or other appropriate face coverings), hand washing, and social distancing. These precautionary measures help reduce virus transmission, particularly by individuals who are sick or who have been infected but are not showing any symptoms. The medical benefits are clear and remain in our own control.”
