George James

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) still remains a threat in the state of Michigan. 10 people have been diagnosed with disease, and  five of those cases have ended in fatality, with the most recent case this week. The most recent case happened in an individual who was a resident of Cass County, which is in the southwestern part of the state. An additional horse has also been diagnosed with the disease. 40 animals from 16 different counties, including Lapeer County have been confirmed as having contracted EEE. Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy for Health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Dr. Joneigh Khaldun said, “The risk of EEE continues if there has not been a sustained period of freezing temperatures.” 

The MDHHS wants residents to continue using measures to avoid contact with mosquitoes, as they are responsible for the spread of the disease. Aerial treatment covering more than 557,000 acres targeting 14 counties was completed October 7th to help combat EEE. It is one of the most dangerous mosquito-borne diseases in the United States with a 33 percent fatality rate.

Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.

Today is National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day. The day focuses on thanking your local Chamber of Commerce that works day in and day out to support local businesses. Executive Director of the Marine City Area Chamber of Commerce, Erika DeLange said her time hasn’t been focused on National Local Chamber Day, but rather on the businesses that the chamber supports. She said, “Every day is chamber day!” as they work to promote chamber members year round. 

President and CEO of the Blue Water Area Chamber Thelma Castillo said she believes “it is important for each community to support their local chamber.” She added, “Chambers of Commerce throughout the country are the backbone that support businesses, especially small businesses.” Castillo said, “The chamber provides the resources and connections to help businesses grow stronger, and the day highlights the programs and recognizes the role that chambers play as leaders of communities and regions.”

Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.

Nearly 1,800 sophomores from the seven St. Clair County school districts visited local manufacturers during the annual Manufacturing Day event through October 15th. The national event is in its fifth year in the area, sponsored by St. Clair County RESA in cooperation with county high schools. Students are being bused to a designated manufacturer, learning a bit about the company and seeing the processes that occur at the specific business. Students also have a chance to talk to employees about careers. 

Manufacturing Day is part of a RESA initiative, “Design 4 the Future,” which has a goal of ensuring that every graduating senior has a plan for life after high school. The event is put on in cooperation with the Eastern Michigan Manufacturers Association and the county Economic Development Alliance. Participating businesses that are opening their doors to students include Grupo Antolin, PTM Corporation, ZF Marysville, Blue Water Controls and SMR Manufacturing among many others.

Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.

Elevated levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been found in surface water drainage ditches in Fort Gratiot Township. PFAS are man-made chemicals that break down very slowly over time and can accumulate in the human body and the environment. The chemicals are found in many different consumer goods and are also used in manufacturing and firefighting.

The testing that found elevated levels was preliminary, and further testing over the next few weeks will be conducted by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). Officials say there is no data that suggests a risk to public health. No PFAS have been detected in the drinking water, and the water remains drinkable. Fort Gratiot Township purchases drinking water from the City of Port Huron and the water is tested monthly for PFAS. As a general precaution, residents who have pets that come into contact with water in ditches or storm water retention ponds should rinse the pet thoroughly with fresh water.

Reporting for WGRT, Mike Smith.

The Algonac Lions Club is in need of medical equipment, because the group receives and maintains medical equipment that is used by area residents. The equipment is provided free of charge for as long as the individual needs it. The Lions club supplies items like canes, crutches, hospital beds, shower chairs, walkers, wheelchairs, and more. 

Algonac Lions Club Secretary Rocky Gillis said, [the group is] “in need of wheelchairs and walkers with brakes and wheels,” but did say they have “plenty of hospital beds.” When asked what communities they served, Gillis explained that “the club does not limit what they do, they serve wherever there is a need,” as they don’t “ put a border on need.” Donated equipment can either be picked up or dropped off to the organization. Arrangement for equipment can be made by contacting Rocky through the group’s Facebook page, or calling 810-531-2416.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is sharing some new statistics and warnings about vaping and e-cigarette products that were shared by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Friday. Here are the facts: as of October 8th, there have been nearly 1300 cases of lung injuries due to vaping or e-cigarettes across the country. Of the 1300 cases, 26 people have died in 21 states. Since August 2019, in Michigan alone, there have been 35 confirmed or probable vaping related lung injury cases and one death. The age range of the cases is from 16 to 69 years of age. 

The CDC and MDHHS are telling people not to use e-cigarette or vaping products that contain THC or nicotine. They also say that vaping and e-cigarette products should not be used by young people or pregnant women. Vaping products should not be purchased off the street, especially if it is said to contain THC. The agencies also caution citizens not to modify or add any substances to vaping products.

Reporting for WGRT – EBWtv