While vaccination continues to be the most important public health action to end the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge in cases across Michigan has prompted the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to issue a public health advisory.

Michigan is presently experiencing another wave of infection driven by the Delta variant, which is estimated to be twice as infectious as the original strain. The greatly increased infectiousness of the Delta variant has driven sharp increases in COVID-19 infections among both adults and children. In addition to COVID-19, Michigan is experiencing an uptick in cases of other respiratory illnesses, including influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The widespread use of face masks would significantly reduce the spread of these viruses.

As such, on November 19, 2021, MDHHS is issuing the following advisory on the use of face masks. This advisory takes effect immediately and remains in effect until further notice.