Vidant Health Media Advisory: Omicron Variant | Eastern North Carolina Now

News Release:

    What:

    Communities across the country and here in eastern North Carolina are witnessing worrying trends as COVID-19 positive cases and hospitalizations continue to rise. As of Jan. 4, the Omicron variant has contributed to almost all of our total variants detected a number that has increased exponentially each week.

    Since Dec. 1, Vidant Health has seen a 340% increase in the weekly average of COVID positivity rate in our region.

    Covid Testing: 7-day moving average

    December 1: 7.3%

    January 3: 32.1%

    We have also experienced a 183% increase in the total number of COVID-positive inpatients across our hospitals during this time, with the vast majority of these individuals being unvaccinated.

    Covid Inpatients:

    December 1: 52

    January 3: 147

    As eastern North Carolina continues to see rising COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and demand for testing, the COVID-19 vaccine and booster is now more important than ever. Vidant Health is offering the COVID-19 vaccine to everyone 5 and older. We are also offering third dose and booster appointments to eligible community members. To learn more about how to get vaccinated or if you are eligible for a booster, please visit VidantHealth.com/vaccinate

    Vidant Health has 14 testing locations across eastern North Carolina to help you get tested for COVID-19. If you need a test, please visit VidantHealth.com/safecommunities to find a Vidant testing location near you. Due to significant demand for COVID testing, please expect delays.

    Who:

    Brian Floyd, RN, MBA, president, Vidant Medical Center and chief operating officer, Vidant Health Hospitals

    Dr. T. Ryan Gallaher, infectious disease specialist, Vidant Health

    When:

    2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2022

    Where:

    Virtual over Zoom

    RSVP:

    Please inform us if you plan to attend and a Zoom link will be provided.


    Contact: Ashlin Elliott
    Vidant Public Relations
    Phone: 252-412-9436
    Email: Ashlin.Elliott@VidantHealth.com