McLean County’s top health official issues warnings for the holidays, says “this is serious”

Posted on December 22, 2021
McLean County Health Department Administrator Jessica McKnight spoke with WJBC’s Neil Doyle. (Photo courtesy: WJBC/File)

By Blake Haas

BLOOMINGTON – As hospitals in McLean County is near capacity with cases of COVID-19 and the new variant Omicron running rampant, local health officials are issuing guidance for holiday get-togethers.

According to McLean County Health Department Administrator Jessica McKnight, the best tool to fight the virus is the vaccine.

“Above all, getting vaccinated remains the best defense that we have. Getting a booster shot further increases your protection. You know, nothing is 100% risk-free, but there are ways that we can reduce our risk.”

On Tuesday, local health officials reported 192 new cases of COVID-19, with hospitals in McLean County reporting 92% ICU beds 99% total beds in use.

“(Mitigation strategies include) getting tested before you attend events or gatherings. At those gatherings, strategies (include) masks, opening windows, running (a) air purifier. We can again take these measures to reduce our risk.”

On the vaccine front, 237,785 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been given in the twin cities.

Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the Omicron variant is now the dominant strain in the United States.

Blake Haas can be reached at [email protected].

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