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Local News

Antibody Therapy Available for Treating Severe COVID-19

Tri-Hopsital EMS is now providing an innovative therapy to COVID-19 patients to reduce their symptoms. Through a partnership with the State of Michigan, Bamlanivimab infusion therapy can now be administered to symptomatic individuals in their own homes by licensed health professionals from Tri-Hospital EMS.

Ken Cummings, CEO of Tri-Hospital EMS, said in a press release, “Our team of skilled medics is proud to be taking another step onto the frontlines and administering this treatment that is helping fight the pandemic in Michigan. This innovative therapy is helping reduce COVID-19 symptoms and the need to visit the hospital for treatment.”

Bamlanivimab is an FDA approved monoclonal antibody therapy that has been administered approximately 2,000 times since December. Individuals 12 and older who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at risk for developing severe illness that would require hospitalization can speak to their doctor to see if the treatment is right for them.

Patients must meet certain criteria related to age, immune system health, and the presence of chronic diseases, and a prescription from a doctor is required.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

 

 

SC4 Hosts Film Discussion

Port Huron, MI — As part of their recognition of Black History Month, St. Clair County Community College in Port Huron is offering a special event to discuss the film, A Continuing Series of Small Indignities. The discussion will take place on Zoom at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 25th.

The film, made by Michael Pfaendtner, may be viewed prior to the event on Vimeo. The documentary is based on the reflections of Rodney Harris, a retail management worker in Macomb County. The theme of the film is Harris’ lifelong challenges because of his race. Harris, along with the filmmaker will be part of the discussion panel.

Also on the panel will be Dofonso Fernando, military veteran, SC4 Alumnus, and current Ferris State University student. Fernando will offer his perspective as a recent graduate of SC4 pursuing educational and career goals.

The presentation is offered by SC4’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and the SC4 Democratic Learning Committee. It is open to students, faculty, staff, and the community. Information about signing up for the presentation is at WGRT.com.

To reserve your spot and receive login information, email dei@sc4.edu

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Drive Thru St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast

Adaptability has continued to be a necessity for organizations who plan events and fundraisers, and the United Way of St. Clair County is planning a fun drive-thru St. Patrick’s Day Breakfast designed to keep people safe and provide a fun break from the norm.

The March 17th breakfast includes a hot meal prepared by Chef Mike Moretz and his team along with a some “spirited swag and bountiful cheer.” The United Way family will welcome guests as they drive through the south driveway of their home office and pull up to the Carriage house to pick up their breakfasts.

Registration is required online at the United Way’s website <HERE>, and the cost is $13.95 per person through March 10th. There is also an opportunity to purchase an array of St. Patrick’s Day gear which can be picked up at the United Way’s office or on the day of the event.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

State of Michigan Town Hall About COVID-19 Vaccine

Lansing, MI — Recognizing that Michigan residents have questions about the COVID-19 vaccine, the State of Michigan is hosting the next in a series of community town halls. The February event will address questions within communities of color.

This second virtual discussion is 4 p.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 25. This builds upon the first virtual conversation with faith-based leaders, about the safety, efficacy and importance of the COVID-19 vaccines for safely reopening Michigan. In the following months, Michigan will also host additional town halls in partnership with public health and community leaders. Events are live-streamed at Facebook.com/MichiganHHS.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is the best hope for ending the pandemic and returning to a sense of normalcy in our everyday lives. Questions about the vaccine are understandable – particularly for those in our hardest impacted communities,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). “For Black and Brown communities who have been disproportionally impacted by this pandemic, this is truly a matter of life or death – and getting the vaccine is choosing life.”

Joining Dr. Khaldun for the February 25 discussion are:

  • Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist
  • Dr. Lynn Smitherman, MD
  • N. Charles Anderson, Urban League of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan
  • Reverend Wendell Anthony, Detroit NAACP
  • Eva A. Garza Dewaelsche, SER Metro-Detroit, Jobs for Progress, Inc.
  • Dr. Zafer I. Obeid, M.D., Arab American & Chaldean Council
  • Dr. Terry Samuels, Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians

In order to reach community-wide immunity that can protect others who cannot get vaccinated, about 70% of Americans need to get the COVID-19 vaccine. The goal of the town hall series is to address the safety and efficacy of the vaccine by answering questions within vulnerable communities that have been disproportionately impacted, including communities of color.

From the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, persons of color have faced devastating and disproportionate harm, both nationally and here in Michigan. The cumulative COVID-19 case rate in Black and African American populations has been over 40% higher than the rate in white populations. In addition, the cumulative COVID-19 death rate in Black and African American populations has been over three times the rate in white populations.

According to research, 66% of Michiganders are likely or very likely to get the COVID-19 vaccine and 34% would like to get it as soon as possible. However, there are disparities when it comes to who is likely to get the vaccine with 47% of white Michiganders very likely to get the vaccine versus 25% of black Michiganders.

Ahead of the discussion, attendees are encouraged to submit their questions for the town hall about the COVID-19 vaccine. Any questions that cannot be answered during the town halls due to time constraints, will be reviewed and added to the State of Michigan COVID-19 vaccine frequently asked questions.

Michigan’s distribution of the vaccine continues in a phased approach, with an emphasis on ensuring the continuing functioning of the health care system and essential services in the community, and protecting people at increased risk for severe COVID-19 illness. Residents will need to continue preventative measures such as wearing masks, social distancing, and hand washing to reduce the spread of COVID in our communities even as the vaccine is being administered.

Submitted by State of Michigan

Clear Snow from Chimneys, Vents, Meters

As the snow piles continue to grow, and even though Michiganders are used to heavy snow and cold temperatures, the Michigan Public Service Commission has sent out a reminder. They want to be sure that snow is cleared around chimneys, vents, and utility meters.

The MPSC says clearing snow is a life-or-death issue. If carbon monoxide comes back into the house, occupants could become victims of CO poisoning. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, fainting, weakness and nausea. If poisoning is suspected, victims need to get into fresh air immediately and call 911.

To prevent problems, residents should make sure chimneys and air intake valves are not blocked by snow or ice. High-efficiency furnace users should make sure white plastic intake valves are not blocked. Mobile home residents and residents of homes with flat roofs are asked to be especially aware of rooftop drifting that can block chimneys.

Finally, attention needs to be paid to utility meters. Snow or ice buildup can alter the readings and functioning. They need to be carefully cleared to avoid breakage.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

Renew Your Watercraft Registration Online

The Michigan Secretary of State has been developing its online platforms to increase accessibility of their services. Now, there are more ways to get your Secretary of State business done at home or at a self-service station.

To get a jump on boating season, watercraft users can renew their registrations before the March 31st deadline. Boat owners should be receiving notices of renewal in the mail this spring, and they have two options for performing the transaction: online express for quick renewals and an online authenticated renewal process which allows them to access their customer record and conduct other transactions along with the renewal.

All watercraft must be registered with the State of Michigan unless it is a nonmotorized canoe, kayak, or small (less than 16ft) paddle boat that isn’t used for rental or commercial purposes.

For a link to online services offered by the Secretary of State and to find a self-service station near you, visit Michigan.gov/SOS.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand