Carilion Clinic infectious disease experts report they are seeing an uptick of COVID-19 cases in Southwest Virginia.
The percentage of Carilion positive COVID-19 tests has more than doubled since late May, climbing from 2.01% as of May 26 to 4.61% as of June 25. The largest uptick has been within the last week with an observed jump of more than one percent.
Southwest Virginia in particular is experiencing an increase in the number and rate of COVID-19 cases in contrast with the rest of Virginia, which has seen a decrease. Carilion experts say the increases are due to community spread in addition to community members traveling outside the region.
Asymptomatic spread also continues to be a major threat. Many of Carilion’s recent diagnoses are asymptomatic individuals, meaning they can spread the disease without knowing it.
Carilion experts note that as individuals make holiday weekend plans, it is more important than ever to stay vigilant. The decisions made by community members in the coming months will determine how COVID-19 impacts the region.
The health experts urge community members to continue to follow the basics: wear a mask, wash your hands and practice social distancing.
Carilion continues to take precautions, like universal masking and screenings, to keep patients and visitors safe in its facilities. The system also remains prepared for any potential patient surge. Before it gets to that point, however, experts urge the community to do its part to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
