By Marsha Mullings, MPH
USA
55 million cases, 830,000 deaths
Florida
4.2 million cases, 62,504 deaths
Update
New coronavirus cases across the US have surpassed previous records. The nation is now averaging over 300,000 new infections every day.
COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths are rising steadily but are still below the peak of last summer.
Urban areas in the Northeast are experiencing an explosive rise in new cases.
Florida has set and shattered several coronavirus records over the last week. The state is now averaging over 40,000 new coronavirus cases each day.
South Florida is the biggest hotspot for new cases. It is believed that the Omicron variant is circulating widely in the tri-county area.
Announcements
Omicron Variant Reported in All US States
The Omicron variant is present in all 50 states in the US. The variant is more transmissible than earlier variants, including the Delta variant.
CDC Issues Advisory Against Cruise Ship Travel
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued an advisory urging all travelers, those that are unvaccinated as well as those vaccinated, to avoid cruise ship travel. There has been an upsurge of cases on cruise ship and the CDC has responded by upgrading its health advisory concerning cruise ship travel from 3 to 4. The Center is advising travelers to reconsider cruise ship travel for the foreseeable future.
Advisory
The emergence of Omicron and other coronavirus variants highlights the seriousness of COVID-19 as a continued health crisis. Vigilance is critical to reducing the chance of acquiring an infection. Practice good COVID-19 control strategies:
Observe social distancing guidelines (6 feet or more of separation from others).
Practice good hand hygiene (wash hands frequently with soap and warm water or use hand sanitizers).
Wear a mask when out in public if you are unvaccinated.
For more information on coronavirus (COVID-19) prevention, visit www.FloridaHealth.org; nyt.com; www.coronavirus.jhu.edu; www.cdc.gov;
