August 4, 2021
Media Contact: Breanne Forbes Hubbard, population health manager, breanne.forbes-hubbard@vdh.virginia.gov, 276-759-8297
Cases, Hospitalizations Increasing as Delta Variant Spreads in Mount Rogers Health District
(Marion, Va.) – Mount Rogers Health District is seeing increases in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations due to the delta variant.
“The delta variant is in Southwest Virginia, and is spreading faster than previous strains,” said Dr. Karen Shelton, Mount Rogers Health District health director. “This strain is considered more transmissible and causes more serious outcomes. Cases among children and teens are increasing at an alarming rate, as are pediatric hospitalizations.”
Ballad Health has reported that 95% of COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized are unvaccinated.
“We are concerned for our community,” said Shelton. “This is a critical time for those who have not yet been vaccinated to get their vaccine. The CDC has recommended that everyone should mask indoors during this crucial time, even if you are fully vaccinated. Wash your hands frequently or use alcohol sanitizer and stay home when you are sick.”
“We are seeing people who are vaccinated who test positive for COVID-19, predominantly the delta variant, but they are not getting as sick, and rarely go to the hospital,” continued Shelton. “The vaccine is still greatly effective, with less than 1% of those vaccinated testing positive.”
“If you are exposed to someone with COVID-19 or have symptoms, please get tested, regardless of your vaccination status,” said Shelton.
COVID-19 vaccines are available at all local health departments, and mobile clinics are out in the community. No insurance or appointments are necessary, and the vaccine is free to everyone. For the mobile vaccine schedule, please visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/mount-rogers/appointments/. Vaccines are also available at your local pharmacy or through your health care provider.
For more information about COVID-19 vaccination, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/covid-19-vaccine. For details on COVID-19 vaccination in Mount Rogers Health District, visit www.vdh.virginia.gov/mount-rogers/.
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