Evidence growing on COVID vaccines during pregnancy: Virus is dangerous; the shots are not

Last week, researchers at the University of Washington published a study looking at the health outcomes for 2,100 women who contracted COVID-19 during pregnancy. The study found that the women were 20 times more likely to die than pregnant women who were not infected, and the women with COVID were also more likely to experience preterm birth, preeclampsia and admission to the ICU and/or intubation. Another study was recently released that looks at the effects of the COVID-19 vaccine on pregnant women. Among the vaccinated women who have given birth so far, there were no neonatal deaths. MORE
►Whitmer urges residents to remain diligent as she gets second COVID-19 vaccine dose

Michigan reopening plan encourages business leaders, who say 'the sooner the better'

After months of begging and pleading, Michigan business leaders are getting their wish – a specific plan on what triggers the end of the COVID-19 rules. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced her “Vacc to Normal” plan on Thursday, linking Michigan’s vaccination rates to the reopening steps. Business leaders are encouraged, yet concerned the reopenings won’t happen fast enough. Office workers can return two weeks after 55% of Michiganders 16 or older get their first shot. Capacity limits are lightened two weeks after Michigan hits 60%, capacity limits are eliminated two weeks after 65% and the entire state health order – including the mask mandate – is lifted two weeks after Michigan hits 70%.MORE
►When will Michigan ditch its mask mandate? Whitmer ties reopening measures to vaccination rates

We enjoyed a nice, warm day earlier this week, but that was followed by a little cool down. Looking for more of that warm weather? This weekend should provide what you desire. According to MLive Chief Meteorologist Mark Torregrossa, the temperatures are heading into higher numbers for the next couple of days. Torregrossa has a detailed look at the forecast and a reminder for you: It’s still the time of year to only plant what you can cover or afford to replant. Yeah, there are still some cold nights coming. MORE

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►Polar vortex is fading away for summer, but leaves cool air in its die-off

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced Thursday that branch offices statewide will continue booking appointments and end the traditional process of customers taking numbers and waiting to be served. Benson announced the plans, first implemented to keep customers safe during the COVID-19 pandemic, alongside a proposed “Service-Driven Legislative Agenda.” Benson claims booking appointments is more popular than the traditional method and compliments the department’s recent changes, such as renewing driver’s licenses online. MORE
►Michigan's secretary of state wants to allow driver's license photos to be taken from home