(WXYZ) — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is asking Michiganders to take COVID-19 seriously amid rising cases in the state.
Cases continue to rise in Michigan. Last week, the state set a record number of daily cases with more than 2,000, and the state's average case count over the past week is also the highest it has been since the pandemic began.
Whitmer said there has also been a steady rise in hospitalizations.
She also said a vaccine will likely not be widely available for several months.
"That's why we have to do what we know works," she said. "Time is of the essence."
Although the Michigan Supreme Court struck down her powers, Whitmer said she will continue to use every tool available to her to fight the pandemic.
She also called on the Legislature to issue a mask mandate for the Capitol. She warned the virus will spread and worsen as people spend more time inside.