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MEDFORD, Oregon – Jackson County Public Health has issued another call for the public to get vaccinated against COVID-19, as the area is seeing a sharp increase in cases and hospitalizations. The county recorded the highest number of new cases reported in a single day since the start of the pandemic on Friday.
“Today, Jackson County set a new record for the number of new cases in one day. The number of hospitalized and intensive care COVID-19 positive patients is also at an all time high in the region, ”said Dr. Jim Shames, Jackson County health official. “Until more people make the decision to get vaccinated and take action, we will continue to see this virus impact our community and push our hospital systems beyond its capacity.”
Public health officials reported 188 new cases of COVID-19 on Friday, in addition to three other deaths associated with the virus. All three were men in their 60s with underlying health issues.
Hospitalizations have increased dramatically between Jackson and Josephine counties in recent weeks. Authorities noted that there were 68 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 on Friday morning, 18 of those in intensive care.
RELATED: Oregon officials predict nearly 1,200 new COVID-19 cases per day by mid-August
Jackson County Public Health also reported two new workplace outbreaks and two outbreaks associated with retirement homes. Outbreaks at the Food 4 Less regional medical center and Asante Rogue had each been linked to seven cases on Friday, with ongoing investigations.
An outbreak at Lakeland Senior Living was linked to seven cases and one death from COVID-19. A larger outbreak in Farmington Square in Medford had produced 35 identified cases and three COVID-related deaths.
Public health officials have stressed that the best way to stop the spread of the Delta variant is to get vaccinated against COVID-19, which can help prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death. Vaccines are still considered effective against Delta.
“We know seat belts save lives, but even with seat belts you still have to take other steps to stay safe. To do this, follow driving laws and use other tools to protect yourself, other drivers and pedestrians. It’s the same with the COVID-19 vaccine, getting the vaccine saves lives, but we all must continue to use the other safety measures to protect ourselves and others from COVID-19, ”said Tanya Phillips, Jackson County Health Promotion Officer. Public health.
Jackson County Public Health still offers free COVID-19 vaccines at 140 S Holly Street. Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines are available and no appointment is required. These are available Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Earlier this week, Jackson County Public Health joined with the CDC and the Oregon Health Authority in recommending that everyone wear masks in indoor public spaces, regardless of immunization status.
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