Staff report

MIAMI COUNTY — Miami County continues to see a surge in new COVID cases, hospitalizations, and deaths throughout the county. Since Jan. 1, 2022, there have been 1,703 new cases, 60 hospitalizations, and six deaths reported.

This is a significant increase from the same time last year as cases are 95% higher, hospitalizations 76% higher, and deaths 600% higher, according to Miami County Public Health. Public health professionals, health care experts, and education organizations are urging everyone to take necessary steps to limit the spread. First and foremost, if you are sick, stay home. Follow isolation and quarantine guidance, wear a mask when out in public, and get tested if you have symptoms or been exposed.

The new isolation and quarantine guidance indicates that individuals can return to work or school after five days if you have no symptoms or if symptoms are improving. It is important to remember that individuals that are positive with symptoms can still be contagious after the five-day isolation period. Therefore, it is important to continue to wear a mask at all times for the duration of the normal 10-day isolation and quarantine period, according to Miami County Public Health.

The best way to protect yourself from COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now recommends everyone 12 and older get a booster shot five months after their initial Pfizer vaccine series.

Miami County Public Health offers both COVID-19 and flu vaccines by appointment only. For information on vaccination options, testing locations, and current guidance visit www.miamicountyhealth.net.