Most cases of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes COVID-19 in Florida are the omicron subvariant called BA.2.
You may have a family member, friend or coworker who’s tested positive lately, because it's really contagious. Still, doctors aren't telling people to panic about it, but to carry on with care and precautions.
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For instance, Jackson Memorial Hospital is not yet seeing a significant increase in the number of people being hospitalized for COVID-19. But some more people are needing care because they're sick with COVID-19. Some days ago, Jackson Memorial Hospital had about seven patients admitted to the hospital because of the disease.
"That number has increased to 15 — we hope it's not a trend. We've seen ups and downs," said Dr. Hany Atallah, the chief medical officer at the hospital. "It's still within that range where we're keeping a watchful eye on it."
Still, he thinks it's too early to relax all precautions. "If you’re going to a crowded venue, wear a mask," he said.
Atallah says the hospital continues to push for vaccinations against COVID-19 to prevent getting extremely sick. The vaccines cann ot prevent you from getting a coronavirus infection as vaccines don't have 100% protection. They will, however, be extremely effective in keeping you out of the intensive care unit.
If you do have COVID-19 and you're feeling out of breath, call a doctor or go to a hospital to get care.
In Miami-Dade County, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends wearing masks on public transportation , because the transmission risk is medium. In Broward and Palm Beach Counties, the risk is presently low.
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