COVID trending up again

Cases of COVID-19 are trending upward again in Danville and Pittsylvania County, mirroring a trend statewide, according the Danville-Pittsylvania County Health District.

The increase is combination of the Omicron variant that caused a surge earlier this year, as well as Omicron variants, most BA.2, according to the Health District.

In April, BA.2 made up about 60% of sequenced samples in the US, according to the Health District.

“Our current case numbers probably understate the true case numbers, as many people are using home rapid antigen tests, many of which do not require reporting.  Also, as this year's allergy season seems worse many might be passing off their symptoms as allergies that could, in fact, be COVID.  Others might simply be "toughing it out" when they become ill,” said Dr. Scott Spillman, Director of the Pittsylvania County-

Danville Health District.

Case counts, however, remain far below those logged during the height of the Omicron surge in January, however.

Last week, Pittsylvania County had an average of 32 cases per 100,000. In January, that number was about 186 per 100,000. In Danville last week, there was an average of about 21 cases per 100,000 compared to 295 in January.

Sovah Health reports that it has not had a significant change in hospitalizations, according to Dr. Sheranda Gunn-Nolan, Market Chief Medical Officer, Sovah Health

"We are treating less than five COVID-19 positive inpatients across both campuses. These hospitalizations are likely a combination of Omicron and the new variant," said Gunn-Nolan.

Despite the sense that COVID is becoming endemic, Spillman encourages residents to remain vigilant about the virus.

"We cannot take anything for granted with COVID.  Each time we think we are about to exit this situation, another variant or subvariant happens, causing new or a resurgence of health problems, including cases and its consequences.  COVID seems to be settling into a seasonal pattern — though we are in perhaps a "sweet spot" during this part of the year, we do anticipate that the fall will bring a resurgence, along with the other usual fall and winter illnesses, including influenza.  Gatherings also contribute to increased numbers.  We cannot be lulled to sleep now, thinking this is over - it is not.  Vaccinations, the 3 Ws, (wear a mask, wash your hands, wathc your distance) taking proper care of ourselves and others are key to weathering this storm. 

Spillman said the health department, along with pharmacies, medical offices and others, continue to vaccinate regularly.

To schedule a vaccination appointment, visit https://vase.vdh.virginia.gov. For more information about COVID in Virginia, call 1-877-VAX-IN-VA, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.