Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jun 07, 2024 5 months, 2 weeks, 3 days, 16 hours, 8 minutes ago
COVID-19-News: Highest Hospitalization Numbers Since March
The number of COVID-19-positive patients in British Columbia (B.C.) hospitals has seen a significant increase, marking the highest level since March. Data released by the B.C. Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) on Thursday reveals a 67 percent surge in hospitalizations during May. This alarming rise brings the total number of hospitalized patients to 162, up from 97 at the beginning of the month.
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COVID-19 Hospitalizations Rise in British Columbia - Canada
Comparing Past and Present Trends
This increase contrasts sharply with the situation last June, when the number of COVID-positive patients in B.C. hospitals was steadily decreasing. Last year, the BCCDC reported 268 hospitalizations at the start of May 2023, which dropped to 146 by June 2023, a decline of approximately 46 percent. However, this year has shown an upward trend, a shift that underscores the unpredictable nature of the pandemic.
Wastewater Surveillance and Infection Rates
While the BCCDC has transitioned to monthly reporting for COVID-19 hospitalization and testing numbers, it continues to monitor wastewater data weekly. Recent weeks have shown increasing concentrations of SARS-CoV-2, although severity indicators have stabilized since an early May increase.
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/respiratory_wastewater/
The latest data also indicates a drop in the number of new infections confirmed through lab-based testing. During the first full week of May, there were 390 new infections, but this number decreased to 310 by the week ending June 1. Additionally, the percentage of positive tests has declined from 13.2 percent at the beginning of May to 11.1 percent last week.
https://bccdc.shinyapps.io/respiratory_covid_sitrep/
B.C. Government to Cover Cost of Paxlovid
In response to the federal government ending its coverage, the B.C. government has stepped in to cover the cost of Paxlovid, an antiviral drug used to treat mild to moderate cases of COVID-19. The Provincial Health Ministry announced to all
COVID-19 News outlets that the province would provide full coverage for residents with an active medical services plan. This change took effect on Tuesday, ensuring that pharmacies will source their Paxlovid supplies from wholesalers following the federal government's March withdrawal.
Targeted Use for High-Risk Individuals
Paxlovid is recommended for individuals at higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization due to COVID-19, including those who are immunocompromised. The Health Ministry emphasizes that treatment with Paxlovid must begin within five days of symptom onset to be effective, helping to prevent the progression of the disease.
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Spring Booster Vaccine Availability
In addition to the Paxlovid coverage, the B.C. government has made a spring booster vaccine for COVID-19 available since early April. This measure aims to enhance immunity among residents, particularly those at higher risk, and mitigate the impact of the ongoing pandemic.
Conclusion
The recent surge in COVID-19 hospitalizations in British Columbia highlights the evolving challenges posed by the pandemic. With the provincial government stepping in to provide critical support through drug coverage and booster vaccines, efforts are underway to protect the health and well-being of residents. As the situation develops, continued vigilance and adaptation remain key to navigating the complexities of COVID-19.
For the latest
COVID-19 News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
Read Also:
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/covid-19-on-the-rise-again-in-ireland
https://www.thailandmedical.news/news/thailand-medical-authorities-report-a-mere-1863-new-weekly-covid-19-hospitalizations-and-only-6-deaths-how-reliable-are-these-figures
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