MSDH reports higher levels of COVID-19 in Mississippi

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) -Devastating information because the Mississippi State Division of Well being reviews an toddler dying because of COVID-19.

That is the 14th COVID-19 dying in a toddler underneath 18 since 2020, and an infection ranges are trending in components of the state.

After weeks of low numbers of COVID-19, the Magnolia State is trending upward in constructive circumstances.

George Loukatos, a doctor with AlphaCare Pressing Care, notes that the rise in numbers is widespread round this time of yr.

“COVID all through the pandemic, we’d see spikes. There was actually no correlation or season. One in every of our largest spikes was in the midst of the summer season. We nonetheless haven’t figured it out but, we anticipate to see a spike throughout chilly and flu season,” Loukatos stated.

It additionally means folks must double down on defending themselves.

“I feel we’re in the midst of a spike. About 20% of the sufferers we’re seeing throughout all three of our clinics are testing constructive for COVID, which is far more than it was just a few months in the past we noticed in flu throughout October and November and just about no COVID throughout that point,” Loukatos stated.

He stated to restrict contact with anybody who could also be affected.

In a press launch, the Mississippi State Division of Well being confirmed the 14th COVID-19 pediatric dying, an toddler underneath one yr of age.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers stated this newest dying serves as a stark reminder of the significance of being totally vaccinated towards COVID-19 and updated on boosters to guard susceptible people.

“You will need to keep updated and obtain the latest bivalent booster when eligible with a view to present the very best safety towards an infection, hospitalization, and dying from COVID-19,” Byers stated.

“Youngsters are extra vulnerable to getting viruses. Their immune methods simply aren’t mature as adults,” Loukatos stated. “They’re within the setting the place germs are being unfold, particularly throughout daycare environments the place youngsters are simply placing every thing of their mouths and passing germs.”

He urges Mississippians to remain updated with vaccinations, boosters, and testing.

You may name your native county well being division to see if COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters can be found.

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