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Time for optimism?

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

6,699,848 vaccine doses have been administered in New York state since mid-December: 4.5 million first doses and 2.3 million completed series. Statewide, 23% of the population has received at least one dose of vaccine. In the North Country, it’s 29%.

Over 10 million people are eligible for vaccination in New York state. To find a vaccination site near you, go to:

¯ https://vaccinefinder.org/search

¯ https://kinneydrugs.com/locations/appointments/NY

¯ Walgreens COVID-19 vaccine appointments near you — GoodRx.

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

Saranac Lake will have a COVID vaccination clinic Thursday at DeChantal Apartments, open to all county residents 60 and over, essential workers and those with underlying medical conditions: https://tinyurl.com/dechantalshot.

Nationwide and statewide, the rate of daily deaths continues to decline.

Vaccination does not mean you cannot catch COVID-19. You may still get the disease, but likely a less severe version. Vaccinated people can still transmit the disease, so continue to take the precautions. Proper mask usage remains critical.

If you wonder which vaccine to get, is one better than another? At this point, get whatever vaccine is available.

The fatality rate, the percentage of deaths of positive test results, is much lower in Franklin County (0.54%) and the North Country region (1.2%) than New York state (2.28). This is another reason why some people will not take this seriously; we have been much less affected by COVID than the rest of the state. The three lowest fatality rate counties in the state are Hamilton, Franklin and Clinton. Lewis and Jefferson are among the 10 lowest.

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

We have had 249 COVID-19 deaths in the North Country, up four in the past week. Our region’s seven-day average declined from 2.54% positive to 1.44%, less than the overall state level of 3.22% positive. Community spread is still the major issue, so stay vigilant: Wear your masks, socially distance from others, wash your hands frequently, and get vaccinated.

Testing is important, even as more people are vaccinated. Get tested periodically to help protect our community. Infected people without symptoms are major spreaders. Early detection reduces the spread. For an appointment, call Adirondack Health at 518-897-2462.

The North Country region hospitalizations are decreasing, averaging 36 people hospitalized and five in ICU due to COVID-19 during the past week. Regionally, 50% of our ICU beds are available.

One out of 31 people tested in New York state was positive. Whether walking downtown or shopping at the grocery store, you will likely encounter someone who is positive but unaware. This includes people who have been vaccinated, so stay cautious and wear a mask, socially distance, and wash your hands frequently.

Stay healthy.

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

(Graphic by Rich Shapiro)

(Table by Rich Shapiro)

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