PURPOSE: September 2021: You Can Help Slow the COVID Surge
In this video, we hear from Joanne Watson, MSN, RN, and Lisa Costello, MD, MPH — they explain the impact COVID-19 is having on the health care workers, what they are seeing in the hospital setting and why it is incredibly important to become fully vaccinated.
We're feeling the acute impact of COVID-19 and the Delta variant here in our beloved Mountain State, and especially as members of the Health Sciences community.
It's easy to feel powerless to a global pandemic, but I want to share five ways you can take action:
First, stay together. We are always stronger together than separated, and this is a great strength of our people and our state.
Second, get fully vaccinated. Although full vaccination will not get us out of this current acute surge, the future of many people's lives is at stake. Looking at our hospitalized population today, about 82% are unvaccinated. Our ICU population, 90% unvaccinated. Our ventilated population, 91% unvaccinated.
Vaccinations are the key to save lives and protect hospital capacity.
Third, choose layered mitigation strategies. Wear a mask if you are inside around others and in crowded circumstances. Reducing transmission is all of our responsibility and will benefit us all right now.
Fourth, get tested if you have any cold or sinus symptoms. If you are infected, isolate and if you qualify for a high-risk condition, then explore getting treated with the monoclonal antibody cocktail. These antibodies work best if given very quickly before getting ill enough to need supplemental oxygen or being admitted to the hospital.
Fifth, do not go to the Emergency Department unless you have a significant injury or need. Please connect with your primary care provider or clinic to get the care you need. Urgent care facilities are another choice, but we want to reserve Emergency Department capacity for those issues that are vital.
Dr. Makenzie Bartsch shares why she got the vaccine.
Together, we can weather this storm.
Stay strong.
Let's go.
Clay Marsh, M.D.
Vice President and Executive Dean
WVU Health Sciences