LANSING - In observance of the one-year anniversary of the first COVID-19 cases, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is ordering U.S. and Michigan flags to be lowered to half staff on Wednesday.

“One year ago, our world changed forever as we confronted the greatest challenge of our generation,” Whitmer said. “By lowering the flags to honor the one-year anniversary of the virus’s confirmed presence in Michigan, we remember the nearly 16,000 sons and daughters, moms and dads, and neighbors and friends who passed away from COVID-19 in Michigan. As we honor their legacies, let us also take a moment to grieve together, and know that we are not alone in our mourning.”

A lot has happened in the past year. A year ago, there was no cure for the virus and now there are treatments and vaccines coming online.

“One year after our first confirmed case, we now have three safe and effective vaccines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus,” Whitmer said. “I encourage all Michiganders to continue to practice social distancing and proper hygiene and get vaccinated once they are eligible because this is the most effective way to protect you, your family, and others from COVID-19. There is light at the end of the tunnel, and we will get through this pandemic together.”

In the past year, Michigan has confirmed about 600,000 cases of COVID-19 and over 15,000 related deaths.