Osage County Health Department (OCHD) Administrator Kim Sallin isn’t sure exactly why but current positive COVID numbers are lower, with just 38 active as of Tuesday. Overall, there have been …
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Osage County Health Department (OCHD) Administrator Kim Sallin isn’t sure exactly why but current positive COVID numbers are lower, with just 38 active as of Tuesday. Overall, there have been 1,569 positive cases, which is 30 higher than last week.
“We’ve had people ask us if it’s okay to just wait it out if they’re sick instead of having a COVID test done,” said Sallin, who assumed the administrator’s role on Monday. “I know that some testing sites have seen fewer people come in. I hope the numbers are lower because they aren’t sick. Our numbers were higher over the holidays because of larger gatherings, and we’re not seeing as many now.”
On Monday, a total of 226 people were given the Moderna vaccine, with a second dose to be provided in 28 days. Sallin said many told her they were keeping their bubble small, with limited interaction, which may also account for fewer active cases.
However, Sallin noted there have been changes in the virus. “We’re seeing more contacts turn up with positive test results,” she said. “We’re also seeing changes in the symptoms. For a while, the main complaint was headache, and then we saw people with a sore throat and burning nose. I’m not saying the strains are changing, necessarily, but it does appear to be more contagious.”
For now, Sallin urges everyone to remain cautious, with a focus now on administering the vaccine.
“We need people to understand we’re following strict guidelines for who can get the virus and when,” said Sallin. “We have to adhere to the tier system, and I know that’s tough for some people, but we can’t cut corners or we’ll potentially lose our ability to provide the vaccine.”
“The important thing to remember is that even after you’ve received the injections, it’s still possible to contract the virus and spread it, which means you still need to wear a mask and maintain proper social distance,” said Sallin.
She urges everyone to be cautious, wear a mask, social-distance, and wash hands frequently to help contain the spread.
For additional information and updates, visit OCHD on Facebook.
