LANSING – Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-22, which extends the deadline to complete the canvass of the Mar. 10 primary to Apr. 24.

As counties do their part and practice social distancing guidelines, some will not complete the canvass for the Mar. 10 primary election by the statutory deadline. The counties remain in the best position to complete the count, and this executive action will ensure that happens. Without action, state employees would have to restart the count, wasting time and resources during this critical moment during the COVID-19 crisis.

“This important Executive Order ensures county canvassers have extra time to complete their work following the Mar. 10 Presidential Primary and that state resources remain focused on addressing this public health crisis,” Governor Whitmer said. “The health and safety of seniors, families and children across the state remains our top priority and I urge residents to stay home and stay safe, continue practicing social distancing if they must leave their home, wash their hands for at least 20 seconds and avoiding touching their face to help stop the spread of COVID-19.”

“I am grateful to Governor Whitmer for ensuring our democracy will remain robust during this public health crisis,” Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said. “Providing more time to canvass the recent election will provide certainty for Michiganders that our elections are accurate and worth everyone participating in.”

Patients with confirmed infection have reportedly had mild to severe respiratory illness with symptoms of:

– Fever

– Cough

– Shortness of breath

The best prevention for viruses, such as influenza, the common cold or COVID-19 is to:

– If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, call your health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the nearest hospital.

– Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds. If not available, use hand sanitizer.

– Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

– Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or upper sleeve when coughing or sneezing.

– Avoid contact with people who are sick.

– If you are sick, stay home, and avoid contact with others.

– Stay at least 6 feet away from others when in a public setting.

Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.