Two Michigan patients being tested for possible Novel Coronavirus 2019 infection
Michigan health officials have identified two patients who require further testing to determine if they have been infected with the Novel Coronavirus 2019, which originated in Wuhan, China, according to officials with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
Each patient who exhibits symptoms of lower respiratory illness and report a travel history including Wuhan or contact with an ill individual are considered for specimen collection and submission to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for testing.
Several people have been evaluated and two patients have been identified for further testing. One is in Washtenaw County and the other is in Macomb County.
The department has evaluated referrals from several counties in the state for further testing at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Results are expected within several days.
The patients being investigated in Michigan have a mild illness and are self-isolating, health officials said.
"At MDHHS, we recognize the potential threat associated with this virus and are working to identify any suspect cases in Michigan," said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. "Our goal is to quickly identify individuals with the virus and prevent any potential spread. We encourage healthcare providers to remain vigilant in screening patients for symptoms and travel history, and to contact their local health departments immediately if they see a potential case."