COVID Cases On The Rise As New School Year Begins

CHARLOTTE, NC —  As the summer winds down and kids head back to school, health experts warn COVID  cases are on the rise. 

“We’re seeing an increase in cases in Mecklenburg county,” Dr. Katie Passaretti said. 

 Dr. Katie Passaretti, Chief  Infection Prevention Officer at Atrium Health says it’s important to get vaccinated.

This comes as the new updated COVID vaccines are expected to be available in the coming weeks. 

“The most important thing I can emphasize is that same as you should get your flu shot in the coming months, definitely go ahead and get that updated COVID  shot as well,” Passaretti said. 

As kids head back into classrooms the CDC also recommends that children get an updated covid shot.

“I would just reinforce the importance of kids staying home if they are sick to avoid that spread and again everyone sick months and older should get vaccinated and that includes kids in schools,” Passaretti said. 

  Dr. Passaretti said  as kids are often in close contact in classrooms its important to also teach your children good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette before they head back to school. 

“So Kleenex if they’re coughing or sneezing and teaching your kids early on and how to not spread snot and virus everywhere is always good practice as we head into the prime of respiratory viral season.”