Omicron BA.5 COVID-19 variant hits Alaska

ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – The Alaska Division of Well being and Social Companies reported one other 2,496 optimistic exams during the last week throughout the state.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Joe McLaughlin stated the predominant pressure in Alaska and throughout the nation is the BA.5 subvariant of omicron.

“We’re within the thick of it proper now,” McLaughlin stated. “I haven’t seen any indication that it’s peaked but.”

The Bethel Census Space, North Slope Borough, Bristol Bay and Lake and Peninsula, which DHSS combines in statistics, had the best seven-day neighborhood case charges, larger than 400 circumstances prior to now seven days per 100,000 folks.

“So we’re seeing loads of repeat infections amongst individuals who have had prior COVID an infection,” McLaughlin stated. “We’re additionally seeing loads of breakthrough infections amongst people who find themselves vaccinated.”

With extra at-home COVID-19 testing kits obtainable, not as many circumstances are reported, and McLaughlin stated he appears at indicators comparable to neighborhood case charges and hospitalizations.

“I believe it’s there sure areas of the USA the place they’re beginning to now see a lower in circumstances,” McLaughlin stated. “However in Alaska, I might say we’re form of proper within the thick of that BA.5 wave.”

Since mid-April, hospitalizations have steadily elevated, and in April, hospitalizations hovered round half what they’re presently, in response to DHSS COVID-19 state information dashboard.

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