The following statement can be attributed to Brian Peters, CEO of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association.
Today’s announcement that COVID-19 public health orders requiring masks and limiting gathering capacities will be lifted June 22 is an important milestone on our path towards ending the pandemic. The key factor that has allowed us to get to this point is the COVID-19 vaccine. The drop in cases and hospitalizations is a direct result of the vaccine’s effectiveness in preventing transmission, illness and death.
However, the vaccine is only effective for those who receive it. We encourage anyone who has not yet received the vaccine to speak with their physician to address any questions and to accept the safe and effective shot. Please also understand that hospitals will maintain existing infection prevention protocols that may require a mask and place other restrictions on visitors to protect the vulnerable patients with weakened immune systems that are cared for in their facilities.