New Spike in COVID-19 Infections Seen in Marin County
COVID-19 cases have been on the rise in Marin County, following a trend seen across the country. Recent data from wastewater testing shows a significant increase in virus levels, with levels on Monday being three times higher than June 29. Wastewater testing has become a reliable method for determining infection levels since most people now rely on at-home coronavirus tests.
Despite the increase in infections, Marin County has not seen a corresponding surge in hospitalizations. Unlike the national average of a 14% rise in COVID-19 hospitalization rates reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Marin County has managed to keep hospitalizations low. The county’s public health officer, Dr. Matt Willis, believes this might be due to the high vaccination rate in Marin County, as 42% of residents have received their primary series of vaccinations and at least one booster shot.
While hospitalizations remain low for the majority of the country, they no longer show a declining trend. The CDC warns that COVID-19 infections tend to rise during the summer months, and this year is no exception. The California Department of Public Health reported a statewide 7-day average percentage of positive tests at 7.6%, more than double the low of 3.4% earlier this year.
Dr. Sara Cody, the public health officer in Santa Clara County, expressed concern that the public’s belief that the emergency is over has led to a false sense of security. COVID-19 is still circulating, and there is a potential for severe illness and missed work or school days.
Dr. Willis suggests that the recent spike in transmissions could be attributed to various factors, including increased travel and gathering due to the summer season. He also states that immunity from vaccines and previous COVID-19 infections may be wearing off, making individuals susceptible to new infections.
Although he discourages rushing out for vaccinations, Dr. Willis mentions that an improved booster tailored to the new omicron subvariant, XBB.1.16 (also known as “arcturus”), will be available in the fall. He advises those who are not up to date with their vaccinations or at higher risk to take precautions, especially in group settings. Wearing a well-fitted, high-quality mask is recommended as a simple yet effective measure of protection.
Marin County’s COVID-19 mortality and hospitalization rates have been consistently low throughout the pandemic, despite its older population. Dr. Willis believes that the current spike in infections is still relatively low compared to historical rates.
As Marin schools prepare to reopen later this month, it remains uncertain whether the CDC will recommend the new booster for children and teenagers. Dr. Willis suggests that individuals stay updated with their vaccinations and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and others, especially when in group settings.
Source: Bay Area News Group contributed to this report.