Disease activity level jumps from ‘medium’ to ‘high’
For the Tomahawk Leader
LINCOLN COUNTY – The number of COVID-19 cases in Lincoln County increased by almost 100 from late March to late April, and the county’s disease activity level jumped from “medium” to “high,” the Lincoln County Health Department (LCHD) said on Thursday, April 29.
According to a report from LCHD, 13.3% of COVID-19 tests were positive and 96 new cases were reported in Lincoln County between March 29 and April 26. The county saw five new COVID-19-related hospitalizations, bringing the total to 125. Three deaths were reported, bringing the county’s total to 61.
LCHD said 10,575 Lincoln County residents (38.3%) had received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose as of Monday, April 26.
“In Lincoln County, there are many places to be vaccinated,” LCHD stated. “Vaccinefinder.org helps you find clinics, pharmacies, and other locations that offer COVID-19 vaccine throughout the United States. It provides information on the days and hours of clinics and vaccine types in stock.”
LCHD noted that it will be holding a drive-thru COVID-19 Pfizer vaccination clinic in Merrill on Thursday, May 6, with the second dose to be administered during a clinic held on Thursday, May 27. Those interested are asked to call 715-536-0307.
Employers can request onsite vaccination clinics by calling LCHD at 715-539-1375 or by visiting the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) website at www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/employers.htm.
After a temporary a temporary pause in use due to blood clots that occurred in several recipients, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is again recommending the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine to those 18 and older.
“On Friday, April 23, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices met to discuss the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccine and reports of blood clots (thrombosis) combined with low blood platelet counts (thrombocytopenia), about one to two weeks following vaccination,” LCHD stated. “The committee, which advises the CDC, voted to lift the pause on its recommendation for the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine. … The vote came after an updated risk-benefit analysis found that the benefits of the vaccine still substantially outweigh the risks. However, it is important to note that before and after the official vote, a number of ACIP members emphasized the importance of women under 50 years old being educated by health care providers about this possible rare but serious adverse event after the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.”
Those who are receiving the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines should receive their second dose “to be considered fully protected,” LCHD said.
“As variants emerge, it is essential to continue public health practices to prevent the spread of COVID-19,” LCHD stated. “Studies show that the current available vaccines provide protection against variants, but this is being closely investigated. Continue to wear a mask when in public, physically distance from others, stay home whenever you are sick, wash your hands frequently, and get vaccinated when you can.”