COVID-19 hospitalizations in Georgia on the rise

Medical officials are sounding the alarm as COVID-19 hospitalizations in Georgia post-holidays are surging.

Numbers are reaching levels not seen in nearly a year as the state recorded the highest percentage jump in hospitalizations nationwide, with a staggering 73% increase for the week ending Dec. 30.

The latest data from the CDC reveals Georgia’s hospitalizations surged from 538 to 933 within a week, with over half of those hospitalized being 60 or older. This spike in Georgia far surpasses the 20% national increase during the same period. 

While this recent COVID-19 rise appears less deadly than previous surges, it is important to note the concurrent circulation of other harmful viruses. Widespread and soaring flu cases across the state compound the situation.

The vulnerability of older adults and those with weakened immune systems is evident, constituting 70% of new COVID hospitalizations in Georgia during the week ending Dec. 30.

The emergence of the JN.1 variant, a descendant of omicron, now representing 62% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S., raises concerns about increased transmissibility or evasion of immune systems. 

Dr. Marybeth Sexton, an epidemiologist at Emory Clinic, emphasizes the need for early testing and access to COVID-19 medications, stating, “We just need to see what happens, whether this calms down as we get farther from the travel people did over the past couple of weeks. Whether we are at a peak or whether we are going to see this perpetuated, I think this will depend on the safety precautions people take.”

Early data suggests existing vaccines remain effective, and despite the challenges posed by the variant, the state and nation are better equipped than in the early stages of the pandemic. Vaccines and prior infections have bolstered immunity, resulting in fewer severe illnesses.

Dr. Andrew Reisman notes a significant decrease in seriously ill patients, emphasizing the importance of early testing and access to medications.

However, COVID-19 remains a threat, especially for older and immunocompromised individuals. Immunity wanes over time, and the risk of long COVID persists. Recent data indicates 12 COVID deaths in Georgia for the week ending Dec. 30, emphasizing the ongoing seriousness of the situation.

Physicians continue to stress the importance of vaccinations against COVID-19 and the flu, urging individuals to stay home if they become ill.

Health officials say that everyone should consider wearing a mask in public during this wave. They strongly recommend masking for those at high risk or with vulnerable household members.