"Increased hospitalizations and an upward trend of new cases continues to be cause for concern as we navigate this pandemic," said Browning. "The data suggests that the current restrictions should stay in place at this time."
On Nov. 1 there were a record number of 99 total hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Boone County hospitals. Twenty-five of those were in the ICU and 18 were on ventilators. Boone County makes up less than 20% of the patients currently hospitalized (17 patients).
There has been an increased number of Boone County residents who have required hospitalization. There have been a total of 160 residents that have been hospitalized due to COVID-19, 60 of which occurred during October. The average age of those hospitalized in October was 61 years old. These data suggest an increased strain on hospital resources due to increased severity of disease.
In addition to increased number of hospitalizations, there has also been an increase in new cases. The five day rolling average increased slightly from 61 on Sept. 18 to 74 on Nov. 1. The positivity rate has also steadily increased in the last several weeks to 15.3% during the week of Oct 23 through Oct. 29.
In order to decrease the number of new COVID-19 cases and decrease the burden on hospital resources, it is critical to continue all mitigation efforts including:
- Wearing a mask when you leave home. Masks are required in the City of Columbia when social distancing is not possible.
- Keeping at least 6 feet of distance from anyone you do not live with.
- Keeping gatherings small and outside if possible.
- Washing your hands, covering your cough, and keeping up your best hygiene and sanitation.
- Staying home if you’re sick.
- Contacting your medical provider and seeking testing if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or have been knowingly exposed to the virus through close contact.