Week 5 Respiratory Update

An additional 14 flu cases were added to our data. This brings our total number of flu cases this season 989. Our influenza cases decreased again this past week. During our 2018/2019 and 2019/2020 flu seasons we typically started to see an increase in cases at this time leading towards our peak in the county (as seen in figure 2 on the respiratory report).

So far, this flu season, we have reported two flu deaths in the county.  Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of flu. CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine especially those at a higher risk of serious complications.



COVID-19 Summary: (Sara Wilton, Epidemiologist)

This week the county remains in the RED/highest transmission level with a weekly case count of 814 confirmed and probable cases; a 59.93% decrease in weekly cases reported. Our percent positivity in Week 5 was 22.6% which is also a decrease from the previous week.

Of the 814 new cases reported in Week 4, 64.37% were unvaccinated, 24.21% were fully vaccinated, and 11.42% were fully vaccinated AND boosted. Though we see a slight increase in the number of fully vaccinated and boosted individuals testing positive for COVID, vaccination and booster doses still provide the best protection against contracting COVID-19. 53.90% of Jefferson County residents have initiated COVID vaccination, while 49.46% have completed the full series. The percentage of residents who have received a third dose or booster vaccine is 18.88%.

This week we are reporting another 23 COVID deaths. We know that when we see a spike in cases (such as the Omicron surge) we then see an increase in hospitalizations, and soon after an increase in COVID deaths. Though we are seeing a current reduction in cases, we are also seeing the final effects of the Omicron surge.

  • Total Cases: 51,687

  • Total Deaths: 462

    • 23 additional deaths since last report

      • Male, 30’s

      • 3 Males, 40’s

      • 2 Females, 50’s

      • 2 Males, 50’s

      • 2 Males, 60’s

      • 3 Females, 70’s

      • 4 Males, 70’s

      • 3 Females, 80’s

      • 3 Males, 80’s

Week 4 Respiratory Update

An additional 53 flu cases were added to our data, 25 of those cases were in week 4. This brings our total number of flu cases this season 975. Our influenza cases decreased again this past week. Influenza A (H3N2) continues to be the dominant strain circulating in our county making up 93% of our cases. So far, this flu season, we have reported two flu deaths in the county.  

Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of flu. CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine especially those at a higher risk of serious complications.

 

COVID-19 Summary: (Sara Wilton, Epidemiologist)

This week the county remains in the RED/highest transmission level with a weekly case count of 1,684 confirmed and probable cases. This is the third week in a row we have seen a decrease in weekly cases. Our percent positivity in Week 4 was 29.6% which is also a decrease from the previous week.

Of the 1,684 new cases reported in Week 4, 62.59% were unvaccinated, 26.9% were fully vaccinated, and 10.51% were fully vaccinated AND boosted. This data shows the effectiveness of vaccination and booster doses against contracting COVID-19. We strongly encourage individuals who are eligible for a booster dose, get that as soon as possible.

53.76% of Jefferson County residents have initiated COVID vaccination, while 49.18% have completed the full series. The percentage of residents who have received a third dose or booster vaccine is 18.45%. Vaccination is our best prevention measure because it prevents severe illness and death.

-        Total Cases: 50,387

-        Total Deaths: 439

             o     23 additional deaths since last report

§  Male, 40’s

§  2 Females, 50’s

§  5 Males, 50’s

§  5 Females, 60’s

§  3 Males, 60’s

§  Female, 70’s

§  4 Males, 80’s

§  Female, 90’s

§  Male, 90’s

Heating Safely in the Winter Months

The winter season can be an intimidating time. As the weather gets colder outside, the temperature inside your home also gets colder. Heating a home in the winter is important for you and your loved one’s health. However, there are safe practices to keep in mind when heating your home.

There are many methods to heating your home in the winter. You also have possible ways to save on costs to your utility bill in a pinch. The University of Minnesota notes that keeping your home heated to 68 degrees and dressing warmly is an effective way to help reduce your electricity bill. If taking this suggestion, be sure to keep plenty of loose fitting, heavy clothing options such as sweaters, blankets, and extra socks to add additional layers when needed.

When we think about heating, we must identify potential hazards. For example:

  • Do not use stoves for heat, stoves can overwork and cause fires or carbon monoxide poisoning

  • Space heaters can help provide additional heat, but are temporary, try and find space heaters with auto-shut off mode and do not contain any glowing components

  • If using a generator, try and keep 20 feet from the house with the exhaust pointing away from windows and doors

  • When using a fireplace, remember to inspect the chimney for any obstructions or creosote build up, which is a flammable byproduct

  • Avoid placing any objects near your furnace that could potentially start a fire

  • Extension cords are not designed to be a long-term solution, only use temporarily, and try and keep out of walking paths due to tripping hazard

If you want to learn more about staying safe while keeping warm this winter check out this website: https://extension.umn.edu/home-maintenance-and-safety/keep-your-home-warm-and-safe-winter

Check out more winter storm safety tips here: Be prepared for a winter storm (ready.gov)

If further assistance is needed, help may be possible. Check out the following resources for heating and electric bill assistance: Mercy Utility Resource List -- utility_and_rent_-_jefferson_county_17.pdf (mercy.net) Ameren Energy Assistance -- Energy Assistance - Ameren Missouri

About the Author:

Calem Parrish is the Public Health Advocate at the Health Department. Although he is new to the role, he has worked in the field of public health for 6 years. After earning his master's degree in Public Health from Indiana University, he worked on projects focused on environmental health, giving a diverse public health background for this position. He also appreciates conservation efforts and environmental protection. In his free time, Calem likes reading sci-fi, watching the Blues, and spending time with his dog, Lesley.

Week 3 Respiratory Update

During Week 3, an additional 25 flu cases were added to our data. This brings our total number of flu cases this season 922. Our influenza cases decreased again this past week. Influenza A (H3N2) continues to be the dominant strain circulating in our county making up 93% of our cases.

As of Week 3, we are reporting a new flu death; a female in her 50’s. So far, this flu season, we have reported two flu deaths in the county.  

Flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the spread of flu. CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine especially those at a higher risk of serious complications.

 

COVID-19 Summary: (Sara Wilton, Epidemiologist)

This week the county remains in the RED/highest transmission level with a weekly case count of 2,495 confirmed and probable cases. This is the second week in a row we have seen a small decrease in weekly cases. Our percent positivity in Week 3 was 36.27%. It is important to note that Covid home tests may affect the weekly case count and our percent positivity rate. While the growing number of home tests is indeed a good thing, we are not made aware of many of these positive home tests unless an individual self-reports the positive test to the health department or receives a follow up test with their doctor.  

Of the 2,495 new cases reported in Week 1, 63.45% were unvaccinated, 26.57% were fully vaccinated, and 9.98% were fully vaccinated AND boosted. This data shows the effectiveness of vaccination and booster doses against contracting COVID-19. We strongly encourage individuals who are eligible for a booster dose, get that as soon as possible.

53.53% of Jefferson County residents have initiated COVID vaccination, while 48.9% have completed the full series. The percentage of residents who have received a third dose or booster vaccine is 17.78%. Vaccination is our best prevention measure because it prevents severe illness and death.

-        Total Cases: 48,486

-        Total Deaths: 416

             o     10 additional deaths since last report, all community based

§  Male 50’s

§  2 Females, 60’s

§  2 Males, 60’s

§  2 Females, 70’s

§  Female, 80’s

§  Male, 80’s

§  Female, 90’s

Staying Active in the Cold Weather

With winter feasts and holiday treats behind us, you may be searching for ideas to work off those extra calories. Whether you are wanting to lose weight, fulfill your resolution of working out, or just want to start a healthy habit, here are some tips for getting fit in winter months!

Don’t let the cold or limited daylight hours discourage you from reaching your goals! If you don’t have equipment at home or a gym membership that’s ok! Running, walking, or hiking are some great workout options for those that don’t have access to a lot of equipment. Whether you decide to workout from home, outdoors, or at the gym, here are some tips to keep you motivated and ready to meet your goals!

Dress in Warm Layers

Working out outdoors in the winter can be difficult without the right clothes. Invest in some warm workout clothes that you can layer on to take your workout outside. Dress in layers so that you can remove items if you get too warm. Start with a moisture-wicking shirt. The next layer should be something warm like wool or fleece. For the outer layer chose something that will block the cold wind. If you plan on doing an activity in the snow or the ground is wet, make sure your shoes are waterproof. Don’t forget other items like gloves or a hat!

Beat the Cold

If you’re someone that dislikes the cold it may be hard to even get out of bed in the morning. It can be even harder to find the motivation to get into workout clothes and begin your workout. Try placing your workout clothes someplace warm so they feel cozy on a chilly morning. You could also try sleeping in your workout clothes! That way you’re ready to go and your clothes are already warm. You could also opt into doing activities that will keep you nice and warm. Try finding a hot yoga class or a gym with a heated pool.

Get Motivated in the Dark

Winter also comes with the challenge of shorter days. For most people, it is dark in the morning before work and dark before clocking out. If the darkness dampens your motivation, try mixing it up. Take a long brisk walk during your lunch break to take in the sunshine! Try a workout in during the middle of the day on your days off. You could also try putting on your workout clothes right before your leave work. That way you are already ready for a workout and more likely to get active after you leave work. Try setting your alarm as a song that will get you out of bed. You’ll be less likely to hit snooze if you love your alarm song!

Be Mindful of Risks

Just like the heat, cold weather can come with health risks. Your warmup and stretching time should be doubled in the cold weather to avoid injury. Check the weather forecast before heading outside for a workout. Air temperatures below 0 degrees Fahrenheit or days with extreme wind-chill can increase the risk of frostbite. Take a day off from your workout or workout indoors on days with extreme weather. Remember that staying hydrated in the cold weather is just as important as it is in the heat. Try and hydrate before, during and after your workout. The cold weather can also aggravate existing conditions like Raynaud’s disease, lung or heat disease, exercise-induced asthma, or lupus. Check with your primary care physician before working out outdoors in the cold weather.

For more information check out these websites!

  • https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stay-active-outside-when-the-weather-gets-colder/

  • https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/the-wonders-of-winter-workouts

  • https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/fitness/easy-winter-exercise-tips-help-you-stay-fit/

Don’t want to brave the cold? Try an at home workout that doesn’t require any equipment!

  • https://blog.myfitnesspal.com/10-minute-no-equipment-total-body-workout/

  • https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/at-home-workouts#beginner-routine

MCH Publicity Statement: This project is/was funded in part by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Maternal and Child Health Services Contract #AOC18380095, and is/was supported by the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant #B04MC30623, Maternal and Child Health Services for $12,107,084, of which $0 is from non-governmental sources.  This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.