County health official shares grim message before Christmas
Dec. 9—LIMA — Allen County Health Commissioner Brandon Fischer shared a grim message during a brief press conference held by Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith.
Just in time for the holidays, COVID-19 seems to be settling in for another wave that health officials fear may be more deadly than others. With local hospitals beginning fill up yet again, Fischer begged anyone who would listen to go back to the basics to try to bring the number of sick people back to a more manageable level.
"We are seeing a lot of (positive COVID) cases and in addition to all of the positive cases coming we are seeing a lot of individuals who are going to the hospital and are in pretty serious condition when they go in," Fischer says.
Fischer said there were just 57 COVID patients in Allen County hospitals by the end of October. He said that number was declining from a high in the mid-70s. Since November 6, cases have doubled from late October to nearly 120.
"A lot of the individuals are in pretty serious condition and unfortunately a lot of them are unvaccinated," Fischer said.
The health director said a report the health department received from the hospitals last week stated that 90% of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 were not vaccinated. As symptoms progressed and patients were moved to the intensive care unit, the percentage of unvaccinated patients rose to 95%.
"Our main recommendation for individuals in the community is to wear the mask when you are in crowded settings. We have COVID everywhere and a 25% positive test result rate. Get vaccinated and if you are eligible, get a booster shot," Fischer stated. "
With the holiday season quickly approaching, health officials are pleading for individuals to pay attention to how they are feeling and if they are showing any symptoms to get tested right away. The health department is asking those who test positive to immediately notify their close contacts. If treatment is started within 3 to 5 days after the onset of symptoms the potential for the worst-case scenario can be decreased.
"Monoclonal antibodies and prescription pills are available by prescription. It's important to know your status early so that you can get treatment early and protect yourself from COVID-19 — it's not the best news, but it's the news I have for you right now," Fischer said.
