SARASOTA COUNTY (SNN)– While the number of COVID cases in the US are rising, the rates of vaccine distributions are plummeting.
As of July 14, the United States has reached over 600,000 deaths and nearly 34 million positive cases.
Here on the Suncoast, the number of new COVID-19 cases has quadrupled over the past month and health experts say there’s an easy solution.
“The real message here is that we are seeing an increase in the case load in Sarasota County,” said Steve Huard with the Florida Department of Health in Sarasota County. “So, for those individuals, who are not fully vaccinated – this would be a really good time to make that happen.”
Sarasota County health officials say only 60% of residents in the County have been vaccinated.
In the midst of cases rising through out the state, Governor Ron DeSantis is urging people to get the vaccine to keep from getting severely sick.
“If you are vaccinated,” said DeSantis. “The chances of you getting seriously ill or dying from COVID is effectively zero.”
Officials say that if you are fully vaccinated, it’s important to continue taking precautions as cases rise.
Even if you are vaccinated, health experts say its still important to make sure you’re washing your hands frequently and wearing a mask when in large crowds.
If you are still in need of a COVID shot, the Department of Health in Sarasota is offering free vaccinations to everyone – no appointment necessary.
