April 5 was a monumental day in Michigan’s COVID-19 saga.

State health officials announced Monday more than 8,400 new COVID cases for Saturday, and a combined total for Sunday and Monday over 10,000. This put the state over 700,000 total cases since the pandemic began.

It was also the first day that everyone 16 and older in the state was eligible for the vaccine.

Governor Whitmer said COVID fatigue and less mask wearing, along with travel to hotspots like Florida, were likely contributing factors to the big jump in cases. No new restrictions are expected.

In Berrien County the Health Department and Spectrum Health Lakeland announced that they will continue to prioritize residents based on highest risk. Around 37% of Berrien County residents are now protected through the vaccine program.

More information about COVID-19 and vaccination efforts in Berrien County can be found by clicking here or at The Spectrum Health Lakeland website.