WBKB in Alpena, Michigan announced that they have canceled newscasts “until further notice,” due to the fact that many employees are sick.

The station did not say so, but it sounds like a COVID outbreak has hit the small market station.

WBKB released this statement:

“Due to multiple employees being out of the office because of illness, we will not be broadcasting any newscasts until further notice. We will be sure to update you when we once again have the necessary staff. Thank you for your patience as our crew looks to return to full health.”

News Director Kevin Hodge said there is no set timetable yet for a return to broadcasts.

“We have multiple people out with illness, including reporters,” Hodge said. “Right now, upper management is in talks and will be talking about when it’s safe for everyone to return to work. Out of an abundance of caution, we’ve sent everyone home to keep them healthy.”

If you’re thinking that viewers could just watch a newscast on another station, think again.

WBKB is the NBC, CBS, ABC, and Fox affiliate for the market.

Wow!