Health officials warn pandemic isn’t over

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Health officials say the number of new COVID-19 cases and related deaths is going down in Mississippi.

But the dreaded disease is still very much a threat.

The state has reported 1,084 new cases and 17 deaths since last Monday. Since March 2020, there have been 315,026 cases and 7,257 deaths.

State Health officer Dr. Donald Dobbs said in news reports Mississippi is “halfway” through the pandemic with a way to go. He urged people to get the vaccine shot to protect themselves and others.

"I really do believe you’re likely to get COVID or the vaccine.”

COVID-19 vaccines may now go into younger teens’ arms. Health officials are saying they expect to be providing shots to children and preteens soon.

Kemper County has seen a decline in COVID-19 numbers. Since last Monday, there has been one new case reported and no new deaths, according to health department numbers. Since March 2020, Kemper County has had 958 cases and 28 related deaths.

Gov. Tate Reeves has discontinued all but one of the state mandated restrictions that have been in place for more than a year to keep the public safe during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Masks still must be worn by everyone inside a school building through the end of the 2020-2021 academic school year. The new executive order was issued last Friday. It marks a return to the way things were before the pandemic.

Health officials and the governor recommend people continue to follow the CDC and MSDH guidelines on safety, which include wearing a mask in all public spaces, social distancing, and hand-washing.

Health officials urge the public to not let down their guard. The wearing of face masks when in public is encouraged. And anyone who has not been vaccinated for COVID-19 is urged to make an appointment and do so.

COVID-19 vaccinations for Mississippians are available at no cost from drive-through sites around the state, and from some local healthcare providers.

Free vaccinations are available at MSDH drive-through sites statewide.

Local health clinics. physicians, pharmacies and providers also offer COVID-19 vaccination. Check the Mississippi Department of Health website to learn more about finding a vaccination site and making an appointment.






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