
Surge in COVID and Flu Cases Ahead of Holidays
COVID-19 cases are on the rise in Tompkins County, with a 47% increase in positive cases per week since the start of December. Four people are currently hospitalized with COVID, and local testing numbers have become harder to track. Whole Health Director Frank Kruppa advises people to follow safety measures such as handwashing, testing, staying home with symptoms, wearing masks, and getting vaccinated. Additionally, 21 cases of the flu were reported, prompting the recommendation to get a flu shot. Free COVID-19 testing kits and masks are available throughout the county, and vaccination appointments can be scheduled through primary care providers, local pharmacies, or the vaccines.gov website.
