Michigan Reports Another Single-Day Coronavirus Record Friday

MICHIGAN — Michigan has set another single-day coronavirus record, reporting nearly 10,000 new cases of the respiratory illness Friday.

The state added 9,779 new COVID-19 cases Friday, bringing the statewide total of confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan to 295,177. Michigan also added 53 additional COVID-19 deaths, increasing the coronavirus death toll in the state to 8,377.

Michigan reported 7,592 new COVID-19 cases on Thursday, while adding 134 new COVID-19 deaths. On Saturday, the state had reported that more than 138,000 cases of the coronavirus resulted in recovery.

Don't miss important updates from health and government officials on the impact of the coronavirus in Michigan. Sign up for Patch's daily newsletters and email alerts.

Restaurants Dealt Blow in Fight For Indoor Dining

A recent surge in new cases of the coronavirus prompted state officials to issue new safety restriction on Sunday.

Those restrictions include a request that indoor residential gatherings are limited to two households at any one time, and that families should only interact with one other household over the next three weeks. Dining indoors at eateries is prohibited, and outdoor gathering have been limited to 25 people.

On Friday, Michigan eateries were dealt another blow when a federal judge denied a temporary restraining order sought by the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association to stop a shutdown on indoor dining in Michigan. Indoor dining is prohibited until Dec. 8.

State Urges Residents to Stop "Panic Shopping"

While restaurants struggle with the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic, Michiganders have been "panic shopping," according to state officials, and its something they are hoping to stop.

"Michigan has an ample supply of food products and other items. But, when shoppers panic buy products like toilet paper, paper towel and other items, it creates a ripple effect within the supply chain," Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Gary McDowell said Friday. "Buying what your household will use for the week keeps the supply chain moving, ensures everyone has access to what they need and allows the stores to replenish shelves for your next shopping trip."

The state said there is evidence that people are beginning to panic shop at levels first seen during the early months of the pandemic, Michigan Retailers Association CEO William Hallan urges Michiganders to limit purchases to a week's worth of supply.

Oakland County Provides Free Grocery Delivery to Seniors

Oakland County is providing a free home delivery grocery service for senior adults throughout the county that officials hope will limit their exposure to the coronavirus by allowing them to shop for daily essentials without leaving their homes.

The service is through Shipt, a grocery delivery service that typically costs $99 annually. While seniors will still need to buy their groceries, the delivery to their home will be free. The ordered items must be paid for online using a credit or debit card, the county said.

"The number of COVID-19 cases continues to increase locally and we all must do our part to help stop the spread of the virus," Oakland County Executive David Coulter said. "Many seniors may be reluctant to leave their homes and may not be getting the fresh and heathy foods they need, especially on colder days. This program allows our senior residents to receive essential food and grocery items safely in their homes without risking the possible exposure to the coronavirus and the flu."