Marquette area sees decrease in COVID cases, free KN95 masks for public

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While Covid-19 cases in the U.S. are trending downwards, the pandemic is not over. The virus has not been eradicated, and measures still need to be taken to protect those at high risk for more harmful effects of Covid.

Dreyma Beronja, News Editor

After a surge of COVID cases spiking since the return from winter break, Dr. Bob Lorinser, medical director for Marquette County Health Department, reports that cases are now decreasing in the area.

“The counts include all inpatients with COVID-positive testing, regardless of the reason for
hospitalization,” Lorinser wrote. “We are unable to determine if patients are admitted for COVID vs. incidental or a contributory factor for their hospitalization with data from each hospital.”

According to Lorinser’s press release, COVID cases have dropped around 30% since last week and 50% since the spike in cases. This could be an indication that the omicron surge may have peaked in the area, said interim president Kerri Schuiling.

“If the COVID numbers continue to decrease, the Executive Council and I will review the current pandemic protocols we have in place to determine whether some of the restrictions can be lifted,” Schuiling wrote in an email sent out to the NMU community yesterday.

The MCHD now offers free KN95 masks for the public provided by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at the main office in Negaunee. Other locations include MDHHS offices, area on aging offices, community action, federally qualified health centers and pharmacies.

KN95 masks are available while supplies last.