New daily coronavirus cases have been on the decline for several weeks, but officials are warning that complacency could lead to a resurgence in cases. To better track the virus and its spread, the Department of Health is increasing testing opportunities by offering free COVID-19 screenings in every county at least once per week. These areas will be available to anyone who is experiencing symptoms, but Governor Tate Reeves is reminding teachers that they can be tested without symptoms or contact.
"If you're a teacher and you're in the classrooms and either have symptoms or you're just very concerned, go get tested. You're gonna have an opportunity within your own county at least one time every single week to get tested. If you think you may have COVID-19, go get tested. If you're concerned about COVID-19, go get tested."
Flu season is approaching, and State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says it is time to receive the vaccine. He says a large flu outbreak could lead to additional strain on the state's healthcare system, and symptoms are very similar to the coronavirus making it difficult to diagnose.
"The diagnostic challenge is going to be there for our clinicians, but there are going to be some sort of combo tests out there where you can do flu and COVID-19 at the same time. I think we're going to do a lot more flu tests this year too, and I'm hoping to see an uptick in flu vaccines, but if we are diligent without social distancing and masking, hopefully like they saw in Australia and South Africa we'll see a milder than normal flu season."
Officials say the flu vaccine is available now, and residents should try to be immunized by October.
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