Buncombe County COVID-19 Update February 8, 2022

Buncombe County -- Buncombe County Government Community COVID-19 Update February 8, 2022

All Local COVID-19 Indicators Improving as Omicron Surge Continues to Fall

As anticipated, the Omicron surge is in decline as the COVID-19 case rate has decreased more than 40% in the last week and the percent positivity continues to fall. The current case rate is 523 new cases per 100,000 per week down from 875 new cases per 100,000 last week. Currently, the percent positivity is 19.6% down from 24.1% last week. Sadly our community lost seven (7) individuals to COVID-19 in the last week, which brings the current rate to 2.7 new deaths per 100,000. This is a reduction from 5.0 new deaths per 100,000 last week.

Hospitalizations are beginning to see a decline. As of Monday, there were 158 total COVID-19 patients throughout the Mission Health System. About 13.4% of inpatient beds are occupied with COVID-19. This is down from about 16%. The ICU utilization has also fallen to just over 30%.

In Buncombe County, 72% of the eligible population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and almost 70% of the eligible population has completed their primary series. About 56% of those who have completed their primary series have received a third dose or booster dose. While there is no definite date for the eligibility of those between 0 and 4 years old, it is anticipated to be the coming weeks. This will be a great time for many parents and families who have been waiting for a COVID-19 vaccine for the youngest members of the family.

Public health officials continue to recommend individuals be up to date on their COVID vaccination series. Please continue to wear a mask when in indoor public spaces and get tested if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Testing is available in many retail pharmacies, urgent cares, and various community locations.

There will be a vaccination clinic for the public at North Buncombe High, not Windy Ridge.

Vaccine pop-up: North Buncombe High, 890 Clarks Chapel Road, Weaverville, NC 28787

When: Saturday, Feb. 12 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

All are welcome, and there are free vaccines for everyone in the family. Give your health a boost with safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines. For a vaccine provider near you, visit www.myspotmyshot.nc.gov.