Medical emergencies and deaths outside the hospital have increased dramatically in Michigan during the COVID-19 pandemic, and top state health officials urge residents not to avoid seeking emergency care if necessary.
Out-of-hospital deaths reported by EMS providers increased 62 percent between March 15 and May 23 this year compared to the same period in 2019, according to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Statewide, EMS transports for heart attack and stroke patients have decreased nearly 10 percent and 12.1 percent, respectively, and out-of-hospital cardiac arrests increased 43.3 percent compared to last year.
Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the state’s chief medical officer and deputy director of health, said in a statement that EMS is prepared with additional protective equipment and disinfection protocols, noting that anyone experiencing a health emergency should seek treatment.
“It is incredibly important that people do not delay attention, especially if they have troubling symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness,” Khaldun said.
The trend is similar across the country: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that visits to the emergency department decreased by 42 percent nationwide during the initial stages of the pandemic.
COVID-19 PREVENTION TIPS
In addition to washing their hands regularly and not touching their faces, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone can carry the virus.
Health officials say you should stay at least 6 feet away from others and work from home, if possible.
Use sanitizing wipes or sanitizing spray cleaners on frequently touched surfaces in your home (door handles, faucets, countertops) and carry hand sanitizer when you go to places like stores.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer also issued an executive order requiring people to cover their faces with their mouths and nose inside closed public spaces.
Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.
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