Long Island Sees Surge in COVID-19 Hospitalizations, Raises Concerns for Fall
The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations on Long Island has more than doubled in the past month, signaling a concerning trend of rising cases across the region. While the increase in hospitalizations is still significantly lower compared to the peak of the pandemic, experts are urging caution and closer monitoring of the situation.
As of Friday, there were 157 people hospitalized with COVID-19 on Long Island, a significant rise from 67 hospitalizations on July 14. However, this number is still far below the 447 hospitalizations seen a year ago and over 4,000 in April 2020. Despite the relatively low numbers, health professionals are keeping a close eye on the situation.
Dr. Bruce Farber, chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health, emphasized the need for vigilance, stating, “I’m not panicking but I think we would be foolish if we are not watching these numbers closely, and certainly we’ve seen a lot of clusters of infections.” He also expressed uncertainty about what the fall will bring and warned that the situation may not improve until October or November.
Northwell Health has experienced a sharp increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations, with numbers jumping from 46 to 106 since July 14. The positivity rate at Northwell’s GoHealth urgent care systems has also risen to 25% among those getting tested. However, experts caution that overall positivity rates are likely an undercount due to unreported test results and individuals opting not to get tested.
The emergence of new subvariants, EG. 5 and FL. 1.5.1, both descendants of the omicron variant, is believed to be contributing to the rise in cases. Additionally, factors such as the summer heat wave pushing people indoors and a significant portion of the population not receiving or being up-to-date on booster shots are fueling the increase in infections.
Dr. Susan Donelan, medical director of health care epidemiology at Stony Brook Medicine, noted that many people have abandoned mask-wearing and other mitigation measures. She stated, “A significant majority of the population has really given up on anything related to masking or other types of mitigation.” This lack of adherence to preventive measures has likely contributed to the current surge.
While a new booster shot specifically designed for the latest variants is in development, it will not be available for several weeks. Dr. Alan Bulbin, director of infectious disease at Catholic Health St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center, expressed disappointment that the updated booster will not be ready in time for people returning to school or office jobs as summer ends. He advised individuals to wait for the new booster, ideally by October, before getting vaccinated again.
Bulbin reassured the public that the current increase in hospitalizations and cases is more of a “swell” than a “surge” and is manageable at this point. However, he urged individuals, especially those with underlying health conditions, to be more cautious and vigilant about crowded gatherings, mask-wearing, and social distancing.
The recent uptick in cases serves as a stark reminder that COVID-19 is likely here to stay for the foreseeable future. Dr. Donelan emphasized this point, stating, “I think it’s going to be part of our living situation for the foreseeable future.” Health officials are urging New Yorkers to get tested if they exhibit symptoms and consult with healthcare providers to prevent hospitalization and death.
As the fall approaches, it remains crucial for individuals to stay informed, follow public health guidelines, and prioritize their health and the well-being of others.