Title: COVID-19 Cases Surge in North Carolina as Booster Shots Arrive
According to the latest data from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), the presence of COVID-19 in North Carolina has continued to rise for the 11th consecutive week. This concerning trend is accompanied by another alarming statistic – the amount of virus particles detected in the state’s wastewater is more than double compared to the same period last year.
Adding to the crisis, the severity of COVID-19 cases is increasing, with more than 600 patients admitted to hospitals last week, marking the highest number since February. In response to the growing threat, the FDA has approved updated booster shots to better protect against current variants of the virus.
Pharmacies in the Triangle area of North Carolina have begun receiving doses of these updated booster shots. However, convincing people to get the booster shot may be a challenge, as the percentage of North Carolinians who have received it has decreased since the initial vaccination drive. Shockingly, only a fifth of fully vaccinated individuals in the state have reported receiving two additional boosters.
A closer look at the statistics reveals that the percentage of boosted residents decreases significantly with age. Only 9% of children aged 0-4 have received the updated booster shot, compared to an encouraging 38% of those aged 65 and above.
To encourage vaccination, health experts recommend scheduling flu and COVID-19 shots together. The good news is that most insurance companies cover the cost of these vaccines. Additionally, federal programs are available to provide free vaccines to those who are underinsured or uninsured.
Gaurang Trivedi, CVS Health region director, passionately encourages everyone to schedule an appointment and receive the booster shot for protection against the new variant. More detailed information about the updated vaccines can be found on the NCDHHS website.
With the surge in COVID-19 cases, the availability of booster shots is crucial in combating the virus and protecting public health. It is imperative that North Carolinians take advantage of the updated vaccines and the resources available to ensure the ongoing battle against this deadly virus.
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