By DAVID EGGERT Associated Press

LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Michigan's health and education departments are urging schools to postpone or make virtual large gatherings, including sporting events, if they are not "essential" — as COVID-19 cases spike across the state.

The recommendation is intended to keep schools open when classes resume after the winter break next week.

It was included in a letter to K-12 superintendents and charter school directors Thursday.

Large events involve at least 100 people and include athletic competitions, concerts and meetings.

Officials cite an expected rise in infections caused by the highly contagious omicron variant.