CDC anticipates summer surge in COVID-19 cases | Health | wfft.com – WFFT FOX 55 Fort Wayne | Indiana News & Weather

Between January and April of 2024, there have been more COVID-19-related deaths in Allen County than homicides and traffic deaths combined.

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (WFFT) -- The CDC warns of a potential surge in COVID-19 cases this summer.

Between January and April of 2024, there have been more COVID-19-related deaths in Allen County than homicides and traffic deaths combined.

26 people have died from COVID-19 in Allen County, according to the Allen County Department of Health, compared to 14 homicides and 10 traffic deaths.

However, officials say that number is far less than it was at this point last year.

The CDC says the new variants, known as FLiRT strands, are more contagious than those before them. They fall under the Omicron variant umbrella.

Super Shot Clinical Manager Staci Kaczmarek says this is the time to get the most recent vaccine for anyone who has not done so.

"We've said it from the beginning of the pandemic, but we're getting vaccinated not just for ourselves, but for the people around us as well, and so even if you feel like maybe COVID-19's not a big deal to you, you've done other things, remember that you're also helping to protect your community around you," Kaczmarek said.

The most recent vaccine was released in September, and anyone who has not gotten it can schedule an appointment with Super Shot to do so.

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CDC anticipates summer surge in COVID-19 cases | Health | wfft.com - WFFT FOX 55 Fort Wayne | Indiana News & Weather