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Nine COVID-19 deaths reported as hospitalizations decline, cases stable 

what should an employer do if employee tests positive for covid-19 coronavirusBA.2 strain of Omicron increasing in county

– San Luis Obispo County continues to feel the impact of the recent COVID-19 surge: since last week’s report, the San Luis Obispo County Public Health Department has confirmed that nine more SLO County residents—ranging in age from their 60s to their 90s—have died from COVID-19. At the same time, COVID-19 hospitalizations have continued to decline in SLO County, with hospitalizations reaching their lowest point since July 2021. Two residents are currently hospitalized for severe COVID-19, down from 67 at the peak of the recent surge. Cases have remained relatively stable since last week.

This news comes as state and local public health laboratories have identified additional cases of the BA.2 strain of the Omicron variant in SLO County. BA.2 is a version of the Omicron variant that appears to spread more easily and is quickly becoming the dominant strain nationwide. Officials estimate BA.2 now accounts for about forty percent of COVID-19 cases in SLO County, similar to patterns across California.

“It is likely that BA.2 will become the dominant strain here in SLO County, but it is not yet clear if that will lead to a plateau or a surge in cases,” said County Health Officer Dr. Penny Borenstein. “So far, while we have seen the proportion of BA.2 increase locally, we have not yet seen an associated increase in severe illness or hospitalizations.”

COVID-19 vaccines provide protection against BA.2, especially against severe illness and death, according to the health department. Infection with an earlier strain of the Omicron variant also provides some protection against BA.2. COVID-19 vaccines, testing, and FDA-approved treatment options are widely available in SLO County.

“As we recognize this relative calm following the winter surge, it is important to be prepared for what may come next,” said Dr. Borenstein. “Getting vaccinated, getting tested, and getting treatment if you need it will be key to managing the impact of BA.2 as a community.”

Since last week’s report, 237 new cases of COVID-19 have been reported in SLO County, with the 14- day average remaining steady at 27, the same as one week ago and down from 135 one month ago. Case counts do not include at-home or rapid antigen tests. Hospital counts do not include those who have COVID-19 but are primarily receiving care for another condition.

For COVID-19 updates in SLO County, visit slopublichealth.org/COVID19 or call the recorded Public Health Information Line at (805) 788-2903. Phone assistance is available at (805) 781-5500 Monday – Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Click here for detailed statistics. 

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The news staff of the Paso Robles Daily News wrote or edited this story from local contributors and press releases. The news staff can be reached at info@pasoroblesdailynews.com.