Coronavirus

WCMU and NPR News are dedicated to bringing you the latest news and information about the COVID-19 outbreak. Check this page often for the latest updates about the Coronavirus crisis.

You'll also hear the most recent developments every day on Morning Edition, All Things Considered, Here & Now and Weekend Edition. Click "programs" at the top of this screen for more information.

CDC Reduces Consecutive Minutes Of COVID-19 Exposure Needed To Be A 'Close Contact'

By Joe Neel & Barbara Campbell • 2 hours ago

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has changed the amount of time it takes for someone to be considered a "close contact" of a person with COVID-19.

Previous language defined a close contact as someone who spent at least 15 minutes within 6 feet of a person with a confirmed case.

The CDC now defines a close contact as someone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.

People considered close contacts are supposed to quarantine and get tested for the virus.

Two northern Michigan high schools close following COVID cases

By Ben Thorp • 5 hours ago

Alpena High School and Traverse City High School both announced a move to remote learning following students testing positive for the coronavirus.

Epidemiologist says local health departments still have the flexibility to respond to pandemic

By Ben Thorp • 5 hours ago

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced at a press conference on Wednesday that the number of new COVID cases are surging in Michigan.

Salem, Mass., Says Stay Away If You Know What's Good For You This Halloween

By Barbara Campbell • 6 hours ago

For Salem, Mass., the horror this year isn't the appearance of goblins on Halloween, but visitors hoping to hang out in the witchcraft capital of the U.S. Because of the coronavirus, local officials want to discourage the very tourists that boost the city's economy.

Here are the steps Salem is taking to repel crowds — and hopefully COVID-19:

All the traditional Halloween events are canceled. Businesses are asked to close early this coming Friday and Saturday, and presumably for the following weekend, which includes Halloween on Oct 31.

U. Of Michigan Students Under Stay-In-Place Order, But Football Can Still Kick Off

By Brakkton Booker • 12 hours ago

Health officials in Michigan issued a stay-in-place order for undergraduate students at the University of Michigan, effective immediately, as new confirmed coronavirus cases spike. One big exception: Football.

The public health directive does not apply to varsity student athletes, who are exempt and allowed to take part in practices and competitions.

Washtenaw County, which includes University of Michigan's campus in Ann Arbor, announced the order Tuesday. It is effective through 7 a.m. on Nov. 3.