Hospitals across North Carolina are reporting a slight uptick of COVID-19 cases.
According to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) data, every region but the mountains, Region 6, recently saw a slight increase in COVID hospitalizations.
In Henderson County, AdventHealth Chief Medical Officer Teresa Herbert says those being admitted for other conditions have also tested positive for COVID. Dr. Herbert expects a new COVID booster for fall.
“We are expecting there will be a new monovalent COVID vaccine coming out this fall that will protect against the XBB strains that have been circulating," Herbert told News 13. "Right now, the XBB strains are highly contagious but they're not causing serious illness."
Vaccine manufacturers Pfizer, Moderna and Novavax will release the new vaccine that targets the omicron subvariant. Health officials caution it will be an uphill battle to get people to consider another booster vaccine.
As students head back to the classroom, area health departments and doctor's offices are encouraging parents to check their child’s health records.
Immunizations offer a shield of protection for the entire community. Health officials say during the pandemic,many didn't keep up with their vaccination records. That puts everyone at risk.
“I am concerned our immunization rate has fallen significantly, not just here but across the country," Dr. Herbert said. "So, I'm worried for the winter we'll start seeing an increase in vaccine preventable illnesses."
Whooping Cough (Pertussis) and Measles are just two examples of diseases preventable with immunizations. Many mountains health departments are offering clinics leading up to the start of school with walk-in availability to ensure your child gets immunized.
STORY & PHOTO COURTESY OF ABC 13 WLOSNC hospitals see slight rise in COVID cases, new booster vaccine anticipated for fall | WLOS
