Now is not the time to let your guard down when it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, Riverside County reported that there are 573 COVID-19 patients currently hospitalized. This exceeds the peak number of those hospitalized this past summer at 550 patients. Although the number of ICU COVID-19 patients is less than the summer peak (167 vs 116), the trajectory is in an upward climb.
Since November 1, 2020, the weekly totals for new patients hospitalized has increased approximately 33% each week. Unfortunately, if that trend continues, Riverside County will begin to run out of available hospital beds in three to four weeks as the county has approximately 1,000 general and ICU total beds available. The County has the ability to expand beds by as much as 30% in a surge capacity, but staffing those additional beds also becomes a critical component to meet the surge needs.
Each of us has a responsibility to do our part to prevent acquiring COVID-19 and putting additional strain on our hospitals and medical staff. Remember to prevent the spread of COVID-19, our best tools are to:
- Wear a facial covering when around others outside of your immediate household
- Social distance at least 6 feet from others outside of your immediate household
- If in a public setting, attempt meeting others outdoors
- Limit your time indoors with others not in your immediate household
- Wash your hands often throughout the day especially before eating and drinking
- Disinfect touched items often like a smartphone
For more information about COVID-19, go to https://www.discovercathedralcity.com/covid-19-info
