An Update on COVID-19

by Patrick Kollars, Public Health Manager

Several questions and concerns have been raised about the recent rise in COVID-19 cases in the area and the county. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) predicts that there will be a summer wave of COVID-19 cases due to a new strain of the coronavirus. The new dominant strain, KP.3, is currently spreading throughout the United States and could cause the recent increase in local cases. While COVID-19 cases are still relatively low compared to winter, they are expected to rise due to increasing summer social activity. The CDC has recently observed a slight increase in positivity, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations. It is still recommended to follow the safety measures advised by the CDC, such as maintaining distance, wearing masks, and practicing hand hygiene.

Symptoms of the new variant include upper respiratory symptoms such as sore throat, cough, fatigue, congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever or chills, new loss of sense of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you experience any of these symptoms, please get in touch with your primary care physician for testing. If symptoms are life-threatening, such as difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or wheezing, do not hesitate to contact 911 or go to the emergency room. Symptoms can vary based on an individual’s underlying health and immunity. Don’t hesitate to contact your primary care physician with any questions or concerns. The vaccines remain effective against the new strains. If you have any questions regarding the latest booster, please get in touch with Cow Creek Public Health, Cow Creek Health and Wellness Clinics, or your primary care physician. To stay up-to-date with any changes or information regarding  COVID-19, please visit the CDC COVID-19 website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html.

Home COVID test kits are available through Cow Creek Public Health and Cow Creek Health and Wellness clinics. Don’t hesitate to contact us to obtain a test kit or pick up one beforehand to have it on hand. If your home test kit is positive, please stay home and follow up with your primary care physician.

Cow Creek Public Health: (541) 677-5535

Cow Creek Health and Wellness Center: (541) 672-8533