PORTAGE, MI -- The Portage facility of Mann+Hummel Group notified employees that there will be 377 lay offs in response to the coronavirus shutdown implemented by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s latest executive order.

The company, known for air filter technology, announced the layoffs on Monday, March 23. That same day, Whitmer announced the state was closing down all non-essential businesses.

The notice letter from the Director of Human Resources Todd Smith pointed to the coronavirus pandemic as the reason for the sudden change in staffing.

“As a result, critical customers of this facility have ceased production," Smith said. "These sudden and unexpected circumstances adversely affected our business operations and, unfortunately, prevented us from providing notice sooner.”

The notice specified that the 6400 South Sprinkle Road facility was a non-union facility. All laid off employees will be separated between March 23, 2020 and April 6, 2020. This is a non-union facility, according to the notification letter.

Once the final number is calculated, another letter will be sent to confirm the number of individuals with corresponding job titles, according to the letter.

The Stay Home, Stay Safe executive order went into effect at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24 and will last for three weeks, ending April 13. Violation of the order is punishable by a misdemeanor.

Last week, the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity reported a 2,100% increase in unemployment claims.

In response to the tight restrictions on businesses, Whitmer signed an executive order expanding unemployment eligibility and increasing benefits.

In addition, the state is “seeking solutions” for self-employed workers and independent contractors who aren’t typically able to access unemployment benefits, according to a press release from the governor’s office.

PREVENTION TIPS

In addition to washing hands regularly and not touching your face, officials recommend practicing social distancing, assuming anyone may be carrying the virus. Health officials say you should be staying at least 6 feet away from others and working from home, if possible. Carry hand sanitizer with you, and use disinfecting wipes or disinfecting spray cleaners on frequently-touched surfaces in your home ( door handles, faucets, countertops ) and when you go into places like stores.

It’s not too late to get your flu shot! While the influenza vaccine does not protect against COVID-19 infection, it can help keep you healthy during the flu season.

MORE MICHIGAN CORONAVIRUS COVERAGE HERE.

Below is a county-by-county map of Michigan tracking confirmed COVID-19 cases, followed by a map of possible exposure sites and a chart based on the state’s daily reports. The maps will be updated as more reports are released.

If you are reading this story on mobile and can’t see the map, click here to view it on the web.

Reported coronavirus cases:

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