The number of COVID-19 cases spiked to 1,153 compared to reports in the 600’s in the last two days.
Health officials in San Diego county believe this increase was caused by recent Thanksgiving gatherings. The new report nearly reached the high record of 1,188 identified cases on Sept.10. One additional death was reported on Friday, increasing the total to 4,351 fatalities since the pandemic began.
“Unfortunately, rises like these after holidays are not unexpected,'' said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, county deputy public health officer. “We are vigilant for any changes in cases that Omicron might cause, but we've seen similar spikes like this in the past.''
According to health officials, this spike is not due to the Omicron variant which have been found in San Francisco and Los Angeles. The new COVID-19 variant is not yet reported in San Diego County. Kaiser said similar spikes are likely to occur during the next couple of months because of other upcoming holidays.
"County residents need to be mindful that Delta is still out there,'' Kaiser said. "Indoor masking, vaccination and good hygiene are still strongly advised. People should not visit family and friends or go to work if you're ill.''
A total of 34,514 tests were reported to the county on Friday, with approximately 4 percent returning positive over the past seven days. The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control have not changed their guidelines on protection against COVID-19. County health officials urge San Diegans to continue following the measures to protect against all varieties of COVID-19, including the Omicron variant.
The most recent state figures show a decrease in hospitalizations in San Diego County from 298 on Thursday to 296 on Friday. Of that population, 86 were in intensive care which brings the total two more since Thursday.
Approximately 85 percent of residents in San Diego county ages 5 and older gave received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and approximately 75 percent of residents 5 and older are fully vaccinated. Roughly 460,110 San Diego County residents 18 years of age or older have received a booster dose.
The California Department of Public Heath recommends four specific actions that can be taken by all Californians to help slow the spread of COVID-19, including the Omicron variant.
- Get Vaccinated: All COVID-19 vaccinations are currently available in California for individuals ages 5 and older. Those over the age of 18 who are at least six months since last does of Pfizer or Moderna, or at least two months since J&J, are eligible for a booster. To get vaccinated or get a booster call (833) 422-4255 or visit the My Turn website.
- Wear Masks: Masks are recommended by the CDPH in indoor public spaces regardless of vaccination status. Masks are required at indoor public spaces for those who are unvaccinated. It is mandatory to wear masks on public transit, in public health care settings, K-12 schools, childcare settings, correctional facilities, cooling centers and shelters.
- Get Tested: Individuals should immediately get tested if they are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms regardless of vaccination status. Testing is free for anyone who needs it. Find a testing site online or call (833) 422-4255 or 211.
- Stay home if you are feeling sick.
