Monroe County Health Department reports upticks in COVID-like visits and tick-borne illnesses; offers tick-reporting web app and vaccines

Summary

County health officials said wastewater concentrations and emergency department visits for COVID-like illness have increased since July 22 but remain below earlier spring peaks; officials also reported an increase in tick-borne disease investigations and promoted an online tick-reporting app and clinic vaccine appointments.

Monroe County Public Health reported an increase in emergency department visits for COVID-like illness and higher wastewater concentrations as of July 22, but officials said current levels are lower than the increases seen in February and March. The department also reported a rise in tick-borne illnesses under investigation and promoted a Monroe County tick-reporting web app that allows the public to report locations where ticks are found and view an interactive map. "As of July 22, emergency department visits for COVID-like illness and wastewater concentrations have increased, but levels across the state are still lower compared to increases that we were seeing back in February and March," a public health presenter said. The public clinic continues to offer vaccinations; the department listed an appointment number: (812) 353-3244. Commissioners thanked the health staff for the tools and encouraged public safety and awareness. No new public-health declarations or mandates were announced at the meeting.