As of Sunday, Dec. 12, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recorded 125 positive cases and more than 10 deaths for the week.
Last Thursday, Dec. 9, CCHD Health Officer Karen Senkus reported 4,764 total cases, 4,041 recovered cases and 250 active cases. Nine residents were under hospitalization, with a death count of 62.
“Since Nov. 17, there has been an increase of 500 cases and nine deaths,” Senkus said on Thursday.
Corresponding with the influx of cases is the low vaccination rate. Senkus reported that 57.6% of residents had initiated the vaccine series, while 52.7% were fully vaccinated.
Senkus stressed the importance of following CDC guidelines to stay safe this Christmas and New Year, listing steps everyone should take to decrease severe illness and reduce hospitalizations. She advised residents to wear masks in public spaces, social distance, vaccinate and get the recommended booster shots.
“As we head further into the holiday season, we would like to remind the public to take precautions in protecting themselves and those who are medically fragile or may be at greater risk of contracting the virus,” Senkus said.
Senkus also encouraged the use of monoclonal antibody therapy as a preventative treatment option.
According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), monoclonal treatment uses proteins made in a lab that mimic the immune system’s ability to fight off SARS-CoV-2.
“Vaccines have proven to be the best defense available against COVID-19. However, there are certain immune compromised individuals who may not mount an adequate immune response to COVID-19 vaccination, or those who have a history of severe adverse reactions to a COVID-19 vaccine and therefore cannot receive one and need an alternative prevention option,” stated Patrizia Cavazzoni, M.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research. “Today’s action authorizes the use of the combination of two monoclonal antibodies to reduce the risk of developing COVID-19 in these individuals.”
According to the FDA, the treatment should not be considered a substitute for COVID-19 vaccinations.
Senkus would also like to remind anyone who is exhibiting symptoms or may have been exposed to get tested. Nearby testing locations include War Memorial Hospital, Walgreens, Sault Tribe Health and Human Services, Sault Ste Marie VA Clinic and more.
Exposure generally occurs when people come together.
“Plan ahead for the holidays,” said Senkus. “Have a conversation with those you intend to gather with and take precautions to protect those who are most vulnerable.”
For more information on how to protect you and your loved ones, visit the Chippewa County Health Department website at https://www.chippewahd.com or call the COVID-19 Hotline at 906-635-3640
