From Staff Reports

Following the recent surge of omicron cases (a COVID-19 variant), Buncombe County recently recorded a continuing nosedive in the case rate, as all coronavirus indicators are showing improvement, county Public Health Director Stacie Saunders said Feb 8 during her weekly Buncombe COVID community update.

 â€œAs anticipated, the omicron surge is in decline, as the COVID-19 case rate has decreased more than 40 percent in the last week (Jan. 30-Feb. 5) — and the percent positivity continues to fall,” Saunders told the Buncombe Board of Commissioners during her presentation.

“The current case rate is 523 new cases per 100,000 per week — down from 875 new cases per 100,000 last week (Jan. 23-29),” she said.

“Currently, the percent positivity is 19.6 percent — down from 24.1 percent last week. 

“Sadly our community lost seven (7) individuals to COVID-19 in the last week, which brings the current rate to 2.7 new deaths per 100,000. This is a reduction from 5.0 new deaths per 100,000 last week.”

What’s more, Saunders noted, “Hospitalizations are beginning to see a decline. 

“As of Monday (Feb. 7), there were 158 total COVID-19 patients throughout the Mission Health System. 

“About 13.4 percent of inpatient beds are occupied with COVID-19 (patients). This is down from about 16 percent. The ICU utilization has also fallen to just over 30 percent.

“In Buncombe County, 72 percent of the eligible population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and almost 70 percent of the eligible population has completed their primary series.”

Saunders added, “About 56 percent of those who have completed their primary series have received a third dose or booster dose. 

'While there is no definite date for the eligibility of those between 0 and 4 years old, it is anticipated to be the coming weeks. This will be a great time for many parents and families who have been waiting for a COVID-19 vaccine for the youngest members of the family.

“Public health officials continue to recommend individuals be up to date on their COVID vaccination series. Please continue to wear a mask when in indoor public spaces and get tested if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. 

“Testing is available in many retail pharmacies, urgent cares and various community locations,’ she said.

At that point, the public health director noted that a vaccination clinic for the public was scheduled Feb. 12 at North Windy Ridge Elementary.

“Give your health a boost with safe and effective COVID-19 vaccines,” Saunders said in concluding her update. “For a vaccine-provider near you, visit www.myspotmyshot.nc.gov.”