December 9, 2022
The number of COVID-19 cases reported to the Adair County Health Department for the seven-day period from Nov. 29 through Dec. 5 rose to 29. Case numbers had been under 20 since early November.
The spread of respiratory illnesses continues to increase across the country. Two strains of influenza, the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and the COVID-19 virus are filling hospital beds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported the deaths of two pediatric patients from the flu.
Respiratory illness is spread by droplets. To slow the spread of all four of these viruses, the CDC recommends that people consider wearing masks while case numbers are high. Wearing them in crowded indoor spaces and during family holiday gatherings – especially around family members most susceptible to severe disease – may lower the risk of contracting or spreading these illnesses.
Getting vaccinated against the flu and COVID-19 will provide added protection. The Adair County Health Department continues to administer COVID-19 vaccines and bivalent boosters for residents ages 12 and older as long as vaccine supplies last.
December COVID-19 vaccine clinics are scheduled from 2-4 p.m., December 13, 20 and 27 at the Health Department, 1001 South Jamison Street in Kirksville. To schedule one, call the Health Department at 660-665-8491.
Parents of residents under age 12 should contact their child’s doctor or pharmacy about getting COVID-19 vaccines. Flu vaccines are also still available at area pharmacies.
