COVID-19 Highlights for the Week of 9/20/21:
What’s Happening?
- The 7-day rolling average of new hospital admissions for patients with COVID is down to 106 from a peak of 167 in mid-August.
- The biggest limiting factor in the entire healthcare system continues to be unfilled staff positions.
- ICU bed use by patients with COVID-19 remains very high, with a majority being unvaccinated patients.
- Pediatric infections and hospitalizations have been at higher rates than we have ever seen.
- Monoclonal Antibody Treatments continue to be available in the region and state supported sites have been extended for 30 more days.
What Can I Expect?
- Longer wait times for both routine and emergent care at hospitals.
- While monoclonal antibody treatment is not a substitute for vaccination; it is proving effective in reducing hospitalizations for COVID positive individuals. This treatment is available at a number of sites across the region.
What Can I Do?
- Use an Urgent Care Facility as an alternative to Emergency Rooms when appropriate. Do not use ERs for asymptomatic COVID-19 testing. Visit PrepareMetroKC to see testing locations near you.
- Protect yourself, loved ones, and your community — get vaccinated, wear a mask, avoid crowds, and stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19.
- Talk with your doctor about approved treatments if needed; treatment may include Monoclonal Antibody Infusion.
- Be a workforce vaccination leader — see COVID Stops Here