Another Greene County resident has died of Covid-19. Greene County public health director Becky Wolf reported Dec. 5 that 18 residents have died of the virus, an increase of one during the past week.
Sixteen cases of Covid-19 were diagnosed in the past seven days, bringing the total number of cases to 1,483. The 7-day positivity rate for testing is 6.9 percent; the 14-day rate is 8.2 percent. The level if community transmission is still HIGH in the CDC’s ranking system.
The vaccination rate among Greene County residents has increased slightly, up to 54.1 percent.
Wolf also reported Dec. 5-11 is National Influenza Vaccination Week. “This is your chance to protect yourself, your loved ones, your co-workers, and your community,” Wolf said. “If you haven’t received a flu shot yet, there’s still time.”
“Now more than ever, influenza vaccination is a crucial prevention tool, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. People with certain chronic conditions are more likely to develop serious flu complications, such as pneumonia or death. Everyone six months of age and older needs a flu vaccine. The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are safe to receive at the same time. Contact your primary care provider, pharmacy, or Public Health to get vaccinated today,” she said.
The Omicron COVID-19 variant has been detected in several states in the U.S., but none in Iowa at this time. The State Hygienic Laboratory is performing “sequencing,” specialized testing that will identify the Omicron variant in submitted test specimens. Information will be shared as public health officials learn more.
Public health continues parents to have their children ages 5-11 vaccinated with the pediatric Pfizer vaccine. To date, 62 children in the county have received their first dose. Parents can call public health at 515-386-3228 to schedule their child for an appointment during “family-friendly” hours.
Flu and/or COVID vaccine clinics for adults only are held at the public health department, Greene County Medical Center, Level B, Tuesdays from 9 am to 12 pm, and Thursdays fro 1 to 4 pm. Appointments can be made online at https://hipaa.jotform.com/203558336058156 (ADULTS ONLY) or by calling 515-386-3228.
