Covid cases on the rise amid back-to-school season

PRINCETON, WV (WVNS) — With Covid cases on the rise in the area, what can you do to prepare yourself?

Covid has become a common topic of conversation over the past five years – and for good reason.

According to Karen Bowling, President and C.E.O. of WVU Medicine Princeton Community Hospital, cases are on the rise once again, and unfortunately, it is just in time for back-to-school season.

However, this increase in cases is not unusual nor is it unexpected.

Bowling said on Monday, August 19, 2024 we have seen this pattern before.

“The more you move to indoor activities then the more likely there is for more Covid, and that’s why I think people are talking about September being a peak – cause they know kids are going back to school, people are doing more indoor activities, and even with outdoor things like football games and band practice, things like that, there. There are more people in close quarters together,” said Bowling.

Bowling said precautions need to be taken to avoid getting sick.

Regular, thorough handwashing, wearing a mask if you are immuno-compromised or elderly, and keeping an appropriate distance from each other can all help lower your risk of contracting Covid as well as other viruses.

Bowling also said if you are already showing symptoms to either contact your primary care physician to get tested or take an over-the-counter test.

Knowing that you have Covid is half the battle, and if worse comes to worse, Bowling said PCH is fully prepared to care for anyone who walks through their doors.

“The hospital is very prepared. You know, we learned a lot during the beginning of Covid about how you manage and handle it and so, you know, we have great systems in place to be able to manage our multiple Covid patients. You know, you know, we know what we need to do, when we need to do it,” said Bowling.

Staying aware and taking precautions will be the keys to riding out the current wave of Covid cases, according to Bowling.

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