Naples, Florida – With a rise in COVID-19 cases in 39 states, including Florida, health officials are urging caution as infections continue to increase, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Test positivity rates have surged nationally, reaching nearly 7%, up from 5% just a week prior. Hospital emergency room visits for COVID infections are on the rise nationwide, indicating a troubling trend.
Data collected by Florida’s state Department of Health, along with observations from medical professionals, all point to a concerning uptick in infections, with both Lee Health and NCH hospital systems in Southwest Florida reporting a rise in cases.
Experts warn that while the current situation is not alarming, as summer progresses, the scenario could worsen. Factors contributing to the increase in infections include travel, gatherings, and a decline in vaccine booster rates, making it easier for new variants such as KP.2, KP.3, and LB.1 to spread.
Amid the surge in cases, hospitals in Lee and Collier Counties are seeing more COVID patients seeking care. Dr. Iahn Gonsenhauser, chief medical officer of Lee Health, notes a small but noticeable uptick in COVID-positive patients seeking treatment.
As the state Department of Health reinstates weekly reporting of cases, Florida reported 8,927 cases for the week of June 14, up from 6,568 cases the previous year. In Lee County, there were 392 cases, while Collier reported 210 cases, a significant increase from the previous year.
With new variants of the virus emerging, health officials are emphasizing the importance of staying up to date on vaccinations. The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive an updated vaccine to enhance protection against the latest virus strains responsible for most infections and hospitalizations in the United States.
In light of the evolving situation, health experts stress the importance of remaining vigilant, especially as travel, gatherings, and summer activities may contribute to further increases in COVID-19 cases.