Georgia sending more state-supported staff to help hospitals

News

ATLANTA – Governor Brian Kemp announced the state will increase the total number of supported staff in hospitals to 2,800 from the original 1,300.

Across the state, hospitals told the governor’s office that they needed more staff to treat the influx of COVID-19 patients as well as other patients.

Through October 2021, Georgia had committed $500 million for 1,300 state-supported staff in hospitals across the staff. The increase to 2,800 doubles staffing assistance and another $125 million. The existing contract will be extended as well.

170 staff will go to rural hospitals. Another 450 beds at nine regional facilities have been identified to treat patients statewide.

Kemp encouraged the unvaccinated to talk with their medical care professional and those they trust about getting the COVID-19 vaccine.

“This safe, effective vaccine will reduce the likelihood of you get infected with COVID-19, but more importantly it drastically reduces the chances of you ending up in a hospital bed or losing your life,” Kemp stated.

90 percent of hospitalizations in Georgia for COVID-19 are unvaccinated. Georgia’s only 41 percent fully vaccinated with the majority of counties falling into the 30 percentile range for vaccinations.

Department of Public Health (DPH) Director Dr. Kathleen Toomey explained that 90 percent of the new cases are the Delta Variant. It transmits extremely quickly from person to person and more younger individuals are being diagnosed with COVID-19 than before.

Department of Public Health Director Dr. Kathleen Toomey

Toomey believes the going to vaccine clinics won’t convince someone to receive the shot, but encouragement from family, friends, and doctors.

DPH will continue to hold vaccination events throughout the state at places like farmer’s markets and festivals so unvaccinated don’t have to take time out of their day. The goal is to make it easy for people.

Increased COVID-19 testing from DPH is also on the way. The positivity rate in Georgia is around 17 percent and DPH will be partnering with hospitals to try and prevent overwhelming the system.

The new testing site and plan rollout should become known by the end of the week.

Kemp urged the FDA to fully approve the COVID-19 vaccine to help alleviate the fears of the unvaccinated about getting the shot. The emergency use authorization status of the COVID-19 vaccine has prevented many from being vaccinated.

State employees are encouraged to get vaccinated

Friday, September 3, state government offices will be closed, and all state employees are encouraged to get the vaccine before or on September 3. Kemp added those employees who received the vaccine beforehand to take the day off as a thank you.

“I don’t think mandates in general work. I think at this point if anybody out there trusts the government, it’s probably not many people,” Kemp explained. “There’s misinformation out there.”

He added the South is experiencing vaccine hesitancy, and Georgia’s seeing it across the state.

If state employees don’t get the vaccine, they won’t experience any consequences. Kemp hopes they will get vaccinated for themselves, their families, and to help hospitals.

School guidance

Kemp stated he’s supporting superintendents and districts to make good decisions at the local level.

“I don’t think any more guidance or any restrictions…I actually think that would be counter-productive,” Kemp said. “I’m very confident they know how to deal with any issues.”

DPH Urges All Georgians to Get a Flu Shot

Community, News
flu shot

Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) has a message for Georgians: Everyone needs a flu shot. Yes, you! That’s the focus of a new campaign urging all Georgians over the age of six months to get a flu shot this year.
“Now more than ever, influenza vaccination is critical not only to protect people from getting sick, but to reduce the burden on our healthcare system already caring for COVID-19 patients,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H, DPH commissioner. “Even if the vaccine doesn’t prevent illness from flu completely, it can help reduce the severity and risk of serious complications – and keep people out of the hospital during this COVID-19 pandemic.”

Influenza and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, including:
• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle pain or body aches and headaches
• Vomiting and diarrhea, more common in children than adults

Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.
Both the flu and COVID-19 spread in similar ways. Droplets or smaller virus particles from a sick person can transmit the virus to other people nearby. The smallest particles may linger in the air, and another person can inhale them and become infected.

An important difference between flu and COVID-19 is there is a vaccine available to everyone to protect against flu. Every individual over the age of six months should get a flu vaccine – not just for their own protection, but to protect others around them who may be more vulnerable to the flu and its complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC) recommend getting an annual flu shot by the end of October. It takes about two
weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu to develop in the body.

There are tried and true measures to help protect against the flu or any respiratory illness, including COVID-19:
• If you have symptoms, stay home from school or work.
• Practice social distancing by keeping 6 feet between you and others.
• Wearing a mask or face covering in public.
• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly. Alcohol based hand sanitizers (at least
60% alcohol) are the next best thing if there is no access to soap and water.
• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing to help prevent the spread of
viruses. Use a tissue or cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or arm.
• Avoid touching your face as germs can get into the body through mucus membranes of
the nose, mouth and eyes.

Remember, everything you do to help prevent flu will also help prevent COVID-19.

If you do get sick and think you may have the flu, contact your healthcare provider right away. There are medications that can be used to treat flu but they are most effective when taken within 48 hours of the onset of flu symptoms.

Flu vaccine is widely available at public health departments, doctors’ offices, grocery stores, neighborhood clinics and pharmacies. To find a location near you click on https://vaccinefinder.org/find-vaccine.

For more information about flu and how to prevent it, log on to dph.ga.gov/flu or flu.gov.
For updates on flu or COVID-19, follow @GaDPH on Twitter and @GaDPH on Facebook. Show
your flu shot! Share your flu shot photo with DPH on social media using the hashtag #Igotmine.

Update: Union 242 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 7 deaths

Health, News
Delta

UPDATE: August 6 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 242 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).  Deaths for Union went up to seven.

DPH updated their reporting to showcase current hotspot and case growth over a 14-day period. In the course of two weeks, Union County saw 91 new COVID-19 cases.

41 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point.  DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the four deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, a 90+ white woman with underlying conditions, a 78-year-old female with underlying conditions, and a 56-year old white man with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 156,588 with 3,360 deaths and 16,353 total statewide hospitalizations.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 124
  • White – 320
  • Lumpkin – 320
  • Fannin – 303
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 280

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 28 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 180 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).  Deaths for Union remained at six.

DPH updated their reporting to showcase current hotspot and case growth over a 14-day period. In the course of two weeks, Union County saw 61 new COVID-19 cases.

36 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point.  DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the four deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, a 90+ white woman with underlying conditions, and a 78-year-old female with underlying conditions.  The statewide case total is now at 156,588 with 3,360 deaths and 16,353 total statewide hospitalizations.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 105
  • White – 241
  • Lumpkin – 247
  • Fannin – 268
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 231

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 23 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 151 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).  However, the deaths for Union remained at four.

Cases went up by four from yesterday’s report.

31 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point. This marked two new hospitalizations when the county spent most of July at 29 total hospitalizations.  DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the four deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, and an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions. The statewide case total is now at 156,588 with 3,360 deaths and 16,353 total statewide hospitalizations.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 94
  • White – 241
  • Lumpkin – 233
  • Fannin – 214
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 189

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 21 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 147 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).  However, the deaths for Union went back down to four from five.

31 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point. This marked two new hospitalizations when the county spent most of July at 29 total hospitalizations.  DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, and a 55-year old, white female with unknown medical conditions. The statewide case total is now at 152,302 with 3,335 deaths, and 15,922 total statewide hospitalizations.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 85
  • White – 236
  • Lumpkin – 222
  • Fannin – 206
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 178

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 21 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 144 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county’s reported five total coronavirus-related deaths.

29 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, and a 55-year old, white female with unknown medical conditions. The statewide case total is now at 148,988 with 3,254 deaths, and 15,494 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 84
  • White – 228
  • Lumpkin – 211
  • Fannin – 199
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 171

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 16 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 127 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county’s reported four total coronavirus-related deaths.

29 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, and an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 123,963 with 3,054 deaths, and 13,685 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 75
  • White – 195
  • Lumpkin – 189
  • Fannin – 157
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 124

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: July 12 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 109 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county’s reported four total coronavirus-related deaths.

29 residents have been hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions, and an 86-year-old, white male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 116,926 with 3,001 deaths, and 13,259 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 70
  • White – 172
  • Lumpkin – 170
  • Fannin – 128
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 92

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 26 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 67 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths have reached three.

18 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, and an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 72,995 with 2,770 deaths, and10,605 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 38
  • White – 136
  • Lumpkin – 130
  • Fannin – 94
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 38

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

 

UPDATE: June 23 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 60 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths have reached three.

16 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, and an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 67,675 with 2,687 deaths, and 10,121 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 36
  • White – 132
  • Lumpkin – 121
  • Fannin – 82
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 34

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 17 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 56 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths have reached three.

16 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Details released about the three deaths are the following: A 78-year-old, white male with unknown medical conditions, a 70-year-old, white female with underlying conditions, and an 85-year-old, white male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 60,030 with 2,575 deaths, and 9,543 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 35
  • White – 124
  • Lumpkin – 110
  • Fannin – 70
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 32

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 15 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 54 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths have reached three.

14 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 58,414 with 2,494 deaths, and 9,322 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 35
  • White – 124
  • Lumpkin – 107
  • Fannin – 67
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 32

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 11 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 53 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths have reached two.

14 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 54,973 with 2,375 deaths, and 9,073 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 32
  • White – 122
  • Lumpkin – 106
  • Fannin – 63
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 32

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 10 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 51 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). The county deaths also increased to two.

14 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 53,980 with 2,329 deaths, and 8,974 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 31
  • White – 117
  • Lumpkin – 105
  • Fannin – 59
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 32

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: June 3 at 3 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 46 in the 3 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

12 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. 32 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Fetch Your News received information that as of Thursday, May 21, Union General Hospital only had one active COVID-19 patient in their facility. Also, the hospital has conducted 612 tests and only 54 came back positive. These cases might not all be Union County residents, just where the person received the initial COVID-19 test.

The statewide case total is now at 44,638 with 1,933 deaths, and 7,745 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 24
  • White – 103
  • Lumpkin – 99
  • Fannin – 47
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 31

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 27 at 1 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 43 in the 12 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

11 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. 30 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Fetch Your News received information that as of Thursday, May 21, Union General Hospital only had one active COVID-19 patient in their facility. Also, the hospital has conducted 612 tests and only 54 came back positive. These cases might not all be Union County residents, just where the person received the initial COVID-19 test.

The statewide case total is now at 44,421 with 1,907 deaths, and 7,666 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 22
  • White – 95
  • Lumpkin – 92
  • Fannin – 40
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 30

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 26 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 41 in the 7 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

11 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. 30 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

Fetch Your News received information that as of Thursday, May 21, Union General Hospital only had one active COVID-19 patient in their facility. Also, the hospital has conducted 612 tests and only 54 came back positive. These cases might not all be Union County residents, just where the person received the initial COVID-19 test.

The statewide case total is now at 43,983 with 1,895 deaths, and 7,640 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 22
  • White – 95
  • Lumpkin – 91
  • Fannin – 40
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 30

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 21 at 9 a.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 39 in the 9 a.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

10 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. 19 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 40,157 with 1,724 deaths, and 7,194 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 21
  • White – 91
  • Lumpkin – 88
  • Fannin – 39
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 30

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 18 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 37 in the 7 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

This is the first increase in cases in almost a week.

Union County residents can now be tested at the Towns County Health Department, but need to call the Union County Health Department first to set up an appointment time.

The expanded availability in testing has further slowed lab turnaround times. Reportedly, it can take up to a week or more for a patient to learn their results.

10 residents hospitalized with the virus at some point. 17 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 38,283 with 1,649 deaths, and 6,992 hospitalized.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 21
  • White – 87
  • Lumpkin – 83
  • Fannin – 38
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 30

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 13 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 36 in the 12 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

The number of confirmed cases could see a rapid increase however as DPH released details on Friday about opening testing up to all Georgians. Those who wish to be tested need to contact their local health departments.

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 16 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 35,427 with 1,517 deaths, and 6,308 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 21
  • White – 88
  • Lumpkin – 80
  • Fannin – 36
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 27

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 11 at 6 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 35 in the 7 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

The number of confirmed cases could see a rapid increase however as DPH released details on Friday about opening testing up to all Georgians. Those who wish to be tested need to contact their local health departments.

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 15 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 34,002 with 1,444 deaths, and 6,036 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 88
  • Lumpkin – 76
  • Fannin – 34
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 27

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 9 at 6 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 34 in the 6 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

The number of confirmed cases could see a rapid increase however as DPH released details on Friday about opening testing up to all Georgians. Those who wish to be tested need to contact their local health departments.

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 14 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect the number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 32,568 with 1,401 deaths, and 5,988 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 88
  • Lumpkin – 76
  • Fannin – 34
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 27

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 7 at 6 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 33 in the 6 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 21 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 31,575 with 1,340 deaths, and 5,864 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 87
  • Lumpkin – 76
  • Fannin – 34
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 27

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 5 at 6 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went up to 32 in the 6 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 21 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 29,839 with 1,294 deaths, and 5,654 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 83
  • Lumpkin – 69
  • Fannin – 32
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 19

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 4 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County went back up to 31 in the 7 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH).

Union County also has 10 residents hospitalized with the virus. 21 patients haven’t required a hospital stay, but DPH admits due to the way they gather this data, it might be underreported. Also, hospitalization number doesn’t reflect number of current patients in a hospital, but the total number.

The statewide case total is now at 29,437 with 1,243 deaths, and 5,537 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 19
  • White – 79
  • Lumpkin – 67
  • Fannin – 32
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 19

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: May 2 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – COVID-19 cases in Union County continue to fall in the 7 p.m. report from the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH). According to the department, Union now has 30 cases down from 33.

Earlier in the week, DPH also removed a death from the Union County list bring that statistic back to one.

According to the latest update, Union County also had 10 total hospitalizations.

Earlier in the day, Towns County received it’s first confirmed death as well.

The statewide case total is now at 28,332 with 1,174 deaths and 5,389 hospitalized.

Two employees and one patient in Union County Nursing Home are also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of May 1.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 21
  • White – 78
  • Lumpkin – 63
  • Fannin – 31
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 16

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 28 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 33. However, previous reports from DPH listed two deaths for the county, but the government agency appears to have rescinded one death.

It’s unclear at this time why the death was removed or if it was the elderly male or female previously identified. The new DPH reports removed the deceased patient breakdowns in favor of aggregate data.

According to the latest update, Union County also had 10 total hospitalizations.

Earlier in the day, Towns County received it’s first confirmed death as well.

The statewide case total is now at 24,844 with 1,036 deaths and 4,896 hospitalized.

One employee in Union County Nursing Home is also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of April 23.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 21
  • White – 56
  • Lumpkin – 37
  • Fannin – 26
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 16

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 26 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 32 with two COVID-19 related deaths.

The statewide case total is now at 23,481 with 916 deaths and 4,377 hospitalized.

One employee in Union County Nursing Home is also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of April 23.

Number of confirmed cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 38
  • Lumpkin – 29
  • Fannin – 23
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 15

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 26 at 12 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 29 with 2 COVID-19 related deaths.

The statewide case total is now at 23,401 with 912 deaths and 4,359 hospitalized.

One employee in Union County Nursing Home is also confirmed to have COVID-19 as of April 23.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 38
  • Lumpkin – 29
  • Fannin – 21
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 15

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 25 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 28 with 2 Covid-19 related deaths.

The statewide case total is now at 23,216 with 907 deaths and 4,353 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 36
  • Lumpkin – 29
  • Fannin – 21
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 15

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 24 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 27. The county’s second death was also reported – an 84-year-old female with underlying conditions.

The first COVID-19-related death was a 79-year-old male with underlying conditions.

The statewide case total is now at 22,491 with 899 deaths and 4,322 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 20
  • White – 38
  • Lumpkin – 29
  • Fannin – 21
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 15

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 23 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 25.

The statewide case total is now at 21,883 with 881 deaths and 4,154 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 19
  • White – 36
  • Lumpkin – 28
  • Fannin – 20
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 22 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) listed the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Union at 18.

The statewide case total is now at 21,102 with 846 deaths and 4,018 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 19
  • White – 33
  • Lumpkin – 26
  • Fannin – 20
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 20 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added one more COVID-19 case to Union County bringing the total to 16.

The statewide case total is now at 19,399 with 775 deaths and 3,703 hospitalized.

Sole Commissioner Lamar Paris, released the following information earlier today:

“At this time, Union General Hospital has tested 165 people with 19 confirmed positives while awaiting the results of 17 tests. This does not include any people who may have used private company testing as we have no way to know who they are.

It is apparently impossible for the CDC numbers to match up exactly with hospital numbers, but this is the latest info taking into consideration that the numbers sometimes change hourly. However, the testing process is improving and test that once took a week to receive the results, are now being received within 24 – 48 hours. We may see more positive responses as we test more, but it is also now easier to keep up with accurate data about Union County COVID-19 cases.”

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 15
  • White – 30
  • Lumpkin – 24
  • Fannin – 19
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

“So while our numbers are increasing, they are moving very slowly. We are keeping our fingers crossed. We can not be too careful and we all must continue to wash our hands, keep 6’ from others, wear masks when possible, do not have any groups over 10 people, and remain at home “Shelter in Place” as much as possible. We are not out of the woods yet!!” Paris added.

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 20 at 12 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added one more COVID-19 case to Union County bringing the total to 15.

The statewide case total is now at 18,947 with 733 deaths and 3,550 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 13
  • White – 21
  • Lumpkin – 23
  • Fannin – 16
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 19 at 12 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added two more COVID-19 cases to Union County bringing the total to 14.

The statewide case total is now at 18,301 with 687 deaths and 3,464 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 13
  • White – 20
  • Lumpkin – 23
  • Fannin – 16
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 18 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 7 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added two more COVID-19 cases to Union County bringing the total to twelve.

The statewide case total is now at 17,841 with 677 deaths and 3,447 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 12
  • White – 20
  • Lumpkin – 22
  • Fannin – 15
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 17 at 12 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added two more COVID-19 cases to Union County bringing the total to ten.

The statewide case total is now at 17,194 with 650 deaths and 3,324 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 10
  • White – 20
  • Lumpkin – 20
  • Fannin – 14
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 14

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 14 at 12 p.m. 

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added another COVID-19 case to Union County bringing the total to eight.

The statewide case total is now at 14,223 with 501 deaths and 2,769 hospitalized.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 6
  • White – 13
  • Lumpkin – 10
  • Fannin – 13
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 12

Currently, DPH hasn’t released any recovery numbers for Georgia cases.

UPDATE: April 11 at 12 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added another COVID-19 case to Union County, bringing the total to seven.

The statewide case total is now at 12,159 with 428 deaths and 2,479 hospitalized. The total number of cases grew by 676 since yesterday’s 12 p.m. report.

Yesterday, Union General Health System released a statement about a Chatuge Regional Hospital employee testing positive. Fetch Your News spoke with a hospital representative about the case, find more details here.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 3
  • White – 11
  • Lumpkin – 9
  • Fannin – 9
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 10

UPDATE: April 10 at 12 p.m

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In the 12 p.m. report, the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) added another COVID-19 case to Union County, bringing the total to six.

The statewide case total is now at 11,483 with 416 deaths and 2,351 hospitalized. The total number of cases grew by 598 since last night’s report. DPH isn’t releasing additional details about patients or recovery numbers at this time. It added racial data to the report, but the major of cases race is still unknown.

Number of cases in counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 3
  • White – 11
  • Lumpkin – 9
  • Fannin – 9
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 10

UPDATE: April 9 at 12 p.m. Additional detailed added at 6:30 p.m. 

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Union County now has one COVID-19- related death confirmed by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) as of April 9 at 12 p.m.

The individual was a 79-year-old male with underlying conditions due to HIPAA laws, no other details will be released by DPH about the person. Union General Hospital also told Fetch Your News that the system hasn’t yet had a COVID-19 death.

Due to the deceased patient’s age and underlying conditions did was considered a high-risk individual according to the DPH.

DPH District 2 MPH Dave Palmer issued the following statement to those worried about the spread of the virus:

“While Covid-19 causes only mild to moderate symptoms in about 80% of the people infected with the virus, it is a serious illness causing more severe symptoms for some people. We must all do our part to slow and stop the spread of the virus and protect those who are most at risk. Governor Kemp’s shelter in place order has specific instructions to stay home and only go out for essential needs. If you have a weakened immune system, you should stay at home and away from other people as much as possible. Allow family and friends to get essential items and deliver them to you. Have them leave the items at the door. Remember no visitors. For those who must go out, take precautions to limit your exposure – maintain social distancing at all times, wash your hands often especially after touching common surfaces (doors, gas pumps, etc.), do not touch your face, & wear a face covering if you choose.”

The number of confirmed cases hasn’t gone up from yesterday’s report. As of 12 p.m., Union County still has five confirmed cases.

Fetch Your News asked Union EMA Director and Fire Chief David Dyer about these cases and he said some of them are at home self-isolating.

On his Facebook, Sole Commissioner reported the following about confirmed cases in Union: “The Georgia Department of Public Health COVID-19 Daily Status Report shows currently that Union County has 5 Corona Virus cases that have tested positive. I will verify this a little later, but at least three of these have gone home from the hospital with either one or two still active.”

Dyer urged Union County residents to continue to follow CDC, local, state, and federal guidelines as the community experiences COVID-19 spread. People need to stay home, wash their hands, and contact their primary care provider if they begin to exhibit virus symptoms.

UPDATE: April 8 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga  – Confirmed cases in Union are now at five as of the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) April 8, 7 p.m. report. This continued daily growth could be the result of previous tests finally being processed by the laboratories and the state.

In Gov. Kemp’s April 8 press conference, DPH Commissioner Kathleen Toomey admitted that while the department has the most accurate information, it is not real-time. She also added that this applies to all health diseases because it takes time to process tests. Georgia now has 29 laboratories that can test for COVID-19.

Toomey also said the DPH isn’t necessarily keeping up the information coming from local hospitals or on social media.

Counties surrounding Union:

  • Towns – 2
  • White – 11
  • Lumpkin – 9
  • Fannin – 9
  • Cherokee County, N.C. – 9

As for public notification about from DPH about where patients went in the community before testing positive, District Two Health Department MPH told Fetch Your News,

“We depend on information from the individuals that we interview to be inclusive of everywhere they have been and all persons they have had close contact with. Again, they have to have close contact – less than 6 feet and longer than 10 minutes. There should not be any tourism per the governor’s shelter in place order. There should be no public gatherings. People out in public should only be there for essential reasons, food, banking, etc..and should be practicing social distancing. Because the virus is spreading we are not issuing press releases about cases – they are reflected on the GDPH website.”

Fetch Your News has chosen to report on cases confirmed by the Georgia Department of Health (DPH) only. These reports may not reflect real-time spread as the laboratories processing COVID-19 tests are reportedly backlogged by several days. Fetch Your News is also reaching out to local sources to confirm positive cases before writing articles on the subject.

Update: April 7 at 7 p.m.

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Within the span of seven hours, Union County’s confirmed COVID-19 cases grew from three to four according to the April 7 Georgia’s Department of Public Health Report at 7 p.m.

In the 12 p.m. update, DPH informed the public that Union County had three cases, up from the first case, which was originally reported last week. The 7 p.m. update also saw statewide cases reach over 9,000 and 348 deaths.

Cases continue to be found throughout North Georgia with several counties seeing an increase in COVID-19 numbers. Pickens now has two COVID-19 related deaths. Dawson has one death. All were senior citizens and at least two had underlying conditions.

Currently, the DPH report doesn’t release recovery numbers. However, last week in Cherokee County, N.C., its health department reported that six of it’s nine confirmed cases have recovered.

Please keep everyone battling the virus and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Earlier Update and Original Story Below:

BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – In Georgia Department of Public Health’s (DPH) April 7, 12 p.m. report, it confirmed that Union County now has three COVID-19 cases.

The reports don’t provide details about individuals. Fetch Your News will update the story as information becomes available. Please keep the patient and their family in your thoughts and prayers.

Union General Hospital issued a press release last week about a case and patient, who is a Towns County resident being treated at the facility.

Georgia now has 8,818 cases, and a Public Health State of Emergency is in effect until April 13.

Union General Hospital went on lockdown on March 17, 2020, in an effort to prevent COVID-19 from easily entering or leaving the facility.

Blairsville and Union County declared a state of emergency the week of March 23.

The DPH’s only been testing symptomatic and at-risk patients at this point in time. Union County residents should remain vigilant with social distancing and handwashing to prevent the potential spread of the virus.

Cherokee County, N.C. borders Union County to the North and had eleven confirmed, but two being reported in N.Y. and Illinois because the patients reside in those states. The N.Y. patient also attended a contra dance at John C. Campbell Folk School on March 10, so anyone who also visited the Folk School that day should be tested if they start to exhibit symptoms.

Towns County now has two confirmed cases.

Lumpkin County to Union’s southern border now has nine cases of COVID-19. No details are known at this time.

White County which also borders Union to the south has nine cases. Fannin to Union’s west has ten cases.

Stay with Fetch Your News as we bring you up-to-date news about the spread of the virus in North Georgia and Western North Carolina. See the latest numbers here.

Fetch Your News has chosen to report on confirmed cases from the DPH and is reaching out to other sources for details in order to provide accurate information. DPH reports aren’t necessarily real-time cases, but a few days behind due to the backlog of tests.

Operation changes to COVID-19 specimen collection sites

Health, Lifestyle
specimen collection sites

GAINESVILLE, GA – Nine specimen collection sites operated jointly by the Georgia National Guard and Augusta University ended operations effective May 30. As of June 1, several sites changed their operating hours. Those interested in receiving a COVID-19 test are strongly encouraged to call and make an appointment.

The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) will continue to operate 136 specimen collection sites throughout the state, and encourages Georgians wanting to be tested for COVID-19 to contact their local health department to schedule an appointment.

During the early weeks of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Georgia National Guard and Augusta University joined DPH in its testing efforts by providing a web-based screening and scheduling platform and additional specimen collection sites. To date, more than 44,000 people have been tested at AU Health and partnered sites.

“This partnership with the Guard and Augusta University was invaluable to the COVID-19 response in Georgia,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., Georgia Department of Public Health commissioner. “We are grateful for their service to all Georgians, and for the support and capacity they provided DPH to increase testing for COVID-19.”

The Guard will continue to provide staffing and logistical help at DPH specimen collection sites, as well as its mission of assisting DPH with testing residents and staff in long-term care facilities. Augusta University will provide ongoing specimen collections at its two sites in the Augusta area; Christenberry Fieldhouse in Augusta and Patriot’s Park in Columbia County.

COVID-19 testing is available to all Georgians, whether they have symptoms or not. Individuals wanting to be tested should contact their local health department to schedule an appointment at a location convenient to them. Contact information for local health departments and specimen collection sites can be found on the DPH website at dph.ga.gov. People can also use the AU Health ExpressCare app or call the hotline at 706-721-1852 to be scheduled at a DPH or AU Health-operated location.

For more information about COVID-19 visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

Georgia DPH distributes Remdesivir to hospitals for treatment of COVID-19

Health, Press Release
remdesivir

Atlanta – The Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) is distributing an initial allotment of the drug Remdesivir received from the federal government. Georgia received 30 cases, with 40 vials of the drug per case, enough to treat about 110 patients, depending on the duration of an individual’s treatment. Remdesivir is an antiviral medicine being used to treat hospitalized patients with serious symptoms caused by COVID-19 like low oxygen levels or pneumonia. It has been found to shorten the duration of disease in patients being treated in inpatient hospital settings.

Remdesivir is given intravenously (IV) and decreases the amount of coronavirus in the body, helping patients recover faster.

The distribution plan for Remdesivir in Georgia was developed by DPH leadership, including district health directors and emergency preparedness staff, in accordance with Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines for its use. It is based on the number of patients on ventilators, the most severely ill, and clinical best practices.

Georgia hospitals receiving Remdesivir reported 10 or more COVID-19 positive patients on ventilators, in addition to patients currently being treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a machine that takes over the work of the heart and lungs. These criteria are subject to change based on the availability of Remdesivir and
the development of patient care at hospital facilities across the state.

The following hospitals are receiving Remdesivir; Tift Regional Medical Center, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Wellstar Kennestone Hospital, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Grady Health System, Emory University Hospital, Emory University Hospital Midtown, and Augusta University Medical Center.

“DPH is pleased to have the opportunity to share this promising treatment with hospitals on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19,” said Kathleen E. Toomey, M.D., M.P.H., DPH commissioner. “While this drug is not a cure for COVID-19, getting it into the hospitals and improving patient outcomes is moving in the right direction.”

Georgia has received a second, much larger allotment of Remdesivir. DPH is surveying hospitals statewide over the weekend to determine need. This second allotment will be distributed next week.

Gilead Sciences, Inc. committed to supplying approximately 607,000 vials of the experimental drug over the next six weeks to treat an estimated 78,000 hospitalized COVID-19 patients under an emergency use agreement (EUA). The donation to the United States is part of 1.5 million vials of Remdesivir the company is donating worldwide.

Remdesivir has not been approved by the FDA for widespread use because it is considered investigational, and it is still being studied. Remdesivir was originally developed for use against Ebola. Clinical trials for Remdesivir were done in Georgia at Emory University Hospital.

For more information about COVID-19 visit https://dph.georgia.gov/novelcoronavirus or https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

For updates on the COVID-19 situation as it develops, follow @GaDPH, @GeorgiaEMA, and @GovKemp on Twitter, and @GaDPH, @GEMA.OHS, and @GovKemp on Facebook

Back to Top