COVID cases are climbing close to the Delta wave of summer 2021. AdventHealth officials said there is “probably more COVID in the community right now than we’ve ever had.” The statement comes as students prepare to head back to the classroom which could result in more community spread, marking the third academic year impacted by the pandemic. Statewide, the positivity rate among those tested for COVID remains high, at about 25%, with Buncombe and Henderson counties nearly neck and neck.
MEANWHILE…
Doctors are encouraging parents to consider getting their child a booster vaccine in the next week for increased protection by the start of the new school year. According to North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services data, Buncombe County in Western North Carolina has the highest percentage of individuals who’ve had their full series of vaccines at about 70%, with many other western mountain counties averaging between 45% and 60% for those who are fully vaccinated.
AND…
As if the ongoing COVID crisis isn’t enough, health experts are sounding the alrm about Monkeypox. The World Health Organization has declared a global emergency as monkeypox is rapidly spreading, including
in North Carolina where 13 cases have been reported, with some close to home, as Haywood County makes the list of people who’ve tested postive.
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