COVID-19 cases are increasing in Southern Az; Here’s how to keep yourself safe

In the last few weeks, COVID-19 cases have jumped by 12% in Pima County. Numbers are climbing weekly as a summer wave, driven by different coronavirus variants that scientists group together under “FLiRT”, envelops the nation.

The good news? While cases in Pima County are trending up, they are still below seasonal levels.

“April and May, we had unusually low COVID cases,” said Mary Derby, chief epidemiologist at the
Pima County Health Department. “Now in June, our case counts went up and we’re comparing them to the two previous months, which were at an all time low. So we’re watching the situation closely.”

There has been no increase in the number of people coming to the emergency rooms or being admitted at Tucson Medical Center or Banner – University Medical Center.

“As of July 2, the current number of COVID-19 patients admitted to TMC is in the single digits,” said Carrie Santiago, a spokesperson at TMC.

“We are seeing a consistent number of COVID patients in our EDS and that consistency is reflected in the number of patients who get admitted to our hospitals– no increase or waves have been noted,” echoed Rebecca Ruiz McGill from Banner UMC hospital.

Still, COVID remains extremely contagious, even as its severity has waned thanks to vaccines and previous immunity in the population. Cases could increase rapidly as large groups gather to celebrate Independence Day.

“It’s a good idea, since people will be getting together for the holidays, to remind people about layered mitigation. And you know it doesn’t mean you have to cancel your holiday plans. Not at all. But if you’re feeling sick, stay home until you’re feeling better,” said Derby.

COVID, as a respiratory virus, spreads through air. To lower the chances of getting sick, or infecting someone who is vulnerable, people should improve air quality by ventilating indoor spaces. Opening windows and doors, using an air purifier or HEPA filter, or moving activities outdoors can all lessen the risk of COVID infection. The CDC has an information page with more prevention strategies.

Vaccination is still important as it lessens the chance of severe illness and prolonged, chronic COVID symptoms, often called “long COVID”.

The CDC currently recommends that everyone six months and older get an updated COVID shot along with the flu vaccine, both of which come out in the fall, and are modified according to the dominant strains of each virus.

People 65 years and older, or with a weakened immune system, should consult the CDC guidelines and ask their primary care provider about booster shots.

Pima County has free test kits available at area libraries. Calling the library is recommended before going to pick up a test kit. Positive results should be reported through the Pima County Health Department form on their website, which also includes instructions on how to take a home test.

Accurate data about test results and hospitalizations, combined with wastewater monitoring, helps county officials keep track of the spread of the virus, and to be prepared should there be a significant surge.

Pima County Health Department can also help patients acquire Paxlovid, an antiviral medication which must be taken in the first 5 days after symptoms start.

Stay safe this 4th of July by remembering to ventilate crowded spaces and wear a mask if you or a member of your group are at-risk of serious illness.