Recommendations for college and universities are the same as schools, if eligible get vaccinated, says State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers. He’s encouraging universal masking and…
“Physical distancing, as practical while wearing a mask. Continue contact tracing to identify those individuals who may be infected and exclude them from the school setting, as well as identifying those individuals who may be in direct contact,” said Byers.
State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs says the COVID-19 Delta variant is sweeping over the state like a tsunami with over 3,100 cases and 16 deaths reported Thursday. He suggests those who have COVID-19 should check with their doctor about a monoclonal treatment.
“Even if you’ve been vaccinated, even if you had COVID before, if you get diagnosed with active COVID, please talk to your doctor about antibody monoclonal treatment because it could save your life,” said Dobbs.
Dobbs says those who are immunocompromised should talk with their doctor about a booster shot. Director of Health Protection Jim Craig says they’ve begun a program called Shots at the Shop.
“We’ll train African American owned barbers and stylists to relay correct vaccination information to their customers, family and friends. Our program is paying $1,000 to shops that complete the training and host an event,” said Craig.
Health officials say the vast majority of hospitals have no ICU beds and there’s a nurse shortage. They say 53,000 people have gotten vaccinated over the last couple of weeks; the first shot for many.
