1/Here's where we stand with #COVID19 in #Maine right now.
There are 223 people hospitalized w/COVID, 35 of whom are in the ICU and 2 on a ventilator.
Two weeks ago, there were 143 hospitalized. One thing different now as compared to prior surges is the severity level.
There are 223 people hospitalized w/COVID, 35 of whom are in the ICU and 2 on a ventilator.
Two weeks ago, there were 143 hospitalized. One thing different now as compared to prior surges is the severity level.
2/In prior waves, the number of patients in the ICU and on ventilators grew in tandem with overall numbers. But here, we have not seen the same parallel growth in the most severely ill patients.
Two weeks ago, there were 34 patients in the ICU and 5 on ventilators.
Two weeks ago, there were 34 patients in the ICU and 5 on ventilators.
3/So our growth in hospitalizations has come from non-ICU/non-ventilated patients. They are still ill--make no mistake--since they are hospitalized.
Generally, the composition of those who are hospitalized now are older vaccinated individuals and younger, unvaccinated ones.
Generally, the composition of those who are hospitalized now are older vaccinated individuals and younger, unvaccinated ones.
4/Overall, @MEPublicHealth is receiving 750 positive test results/day (antigen + PCR).
There are *certainly* more infections occurring, however, since home tests are not reported.
There are *certainly* more infections occurring, however, since home tests are not reported.
5/Another difference now vs. prior waves is the greater availability of therapeutics.
Paxlovid, in particular, is available at pharmacies across #Maine.
Supplies are increasing and eligibility criteria are expanding.
Paxlovid, in particular, is available at pharmacies across #Maine.
Supplies are increasing and eligibility criteria are expanding.
6/I urge everyone to make a plan for how to access Paxlovid.
Have tests at home.
Touch base with your primary care provider.
Doing so *before* you test positive is key since early treatment is crucial.
Have tests at home.
Touch base with your primary care provider.
Doing so *before* you test positive is key since early treatment is crucial.
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