The Oklahoma State Department of Health held a Zoom press conference at 3:00pm on Thursday, Sept. 9 to address questions about where the state is on hospital beds and updates on COVID-19 variants and vaccinations.

State Health Commissioner Dr. Lance Frye shared that there are discrepancies between state and hospital numbers of available beds due to the data being a point-in-time retrospective number. Patient care also takes a precedent over reporting data. There is also a strain on health care facilities because of an influx of COVID-19 patients.

"The best way to combat the challenges is for every Oklahoman to get the vaccine. Vaccination is the best way to protect ourselves and others, and to get out of the current situation," said Dr. Frye. In addition to COVID-19, a nationwide shortage of nurses has affected the ability to respond.

Patti Davis, president and CEO of the Oklahoma Hospital Association revealed they would like to be able to utilize nursing students and retired nurses again to help with the shortages.

Deputy Health Commissioner Keith Reed shared that 93.3% of hospitalization were among the unvaccinated, and that if you are not vaccinated, you are at a significant risk for COVID-19 and the Delta variant. 96% of deaths were among unvaccinated, and deaths related to breakthrough cases are primarily among those with significant comorbidities.

"Ultimately, the best way to combat the challenges is for every Oklahoman to get the vaccine,” agreed Reed. “Breakthrough is low in the state, hospitalization rate is preventable with the vaccine. It keep hospitals and hard working healthcare professionals from being overwhelmed.”

Dr. Gitanjali Pai also shared an update about the Mu variant of COVID-19.

The Mu variant is has been designated a “variant of interest” by the World Health Organization (WHO) due to variant’s ability to evade antibodies. CDC has not classified the variant yet, and the majority of cases are attributed to Delta.

Mu variant samples were found in isolated samples collected from May to August 2021.

“Right now, we’re finding that vaccines are still largely effective against variants with similar characteristics,” said Dr. Pai.

Dr. Pai also advised to follow the three W’s (wash you hands, wear a mask, watch your distance) and to get a vaccine.

Dr. Pai also shared that initial data for vaccination trials for ages five to eleven was expected at the end of September, but the FDA has asked to expand the trials, and it may be the end of this year or early next year before there is an update.