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COVID-19 hospitalizations are dropping steadily in Utah

UPDATED: FEBRUARY 21, 2021 AT 3:14 PM

Doctor in Utah say they are optimistic as the number of hospitalizations for COVID-19 steadily decline, but they say it's not time to let down our guards. Screen grab: KSL TV

BY SIMONE SEIKALY
Digital Content Producer

SALT LAKE CITY — One of the trends being closely followed by Utah health officials is the number COVID-19 hospitalizations. And since this number has been showing a steady decline in past days, there may be more room for optimism among the health provider community and Utahns in general.

But it’s not time to celebrate or let our guard down said Intermountain Healthcare’s infectious disease specialist, Todd J. Vento recently told our news partners at KSL TV.

The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations in Utah has been decreasing for the past nine days. Dr. Vento told KSL TV that the decrease is likely due in part to fewer people traveling, as well as the continued adherence by Utahns to social distancing and wearing face masks.

IMAGE: COVID-19 hospitalizations by admission date. Source, coronavirus.uah.gov

And there are other factors that potentially lead to the decrease in COVID-19 hospitalizations in Utah. More than 360-thousand Utahns have had the virus, and they are at less risk of being hospitalized.

And when vaccine doses became available, those Utahns over age 70 were some of the first to be vaccinated. Those hospitalized in Utah with COVID-19 are often over age 70, so vaccinations could also be leading to fewer hospitalizations.

One thing that Dr. Vento says is a concern is the spread of the variant strains of COVID-19, which can be harder to treat.

So he urges Utahns to “keep fighting the good fight.”

Learn more in KSL TV reporter Garna Mejia’s report, embedded above.

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t touch your face.
Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
Get a flu shot.