COVID-19 Update: August 20, 2021

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare officials warned this week that hospitals are close to being overwhelmed by this current COVID-19 surge, which could lead to rationing of health care. To be clear, that could affect everyone seeking medical care in Idaho, not just those with COVID-19. The Division of Public Health warns Idaho is on track to see as many as 30,000 new cases a week by mid-October. Officials say the surge is being driven by unvaccinated Idahoans. Almost every single Idahoan in the ICU because of COVID-19 is unvaccinated. Unvaccinated Idahoans make up more than 98 percent of new cases across the state. Public health officials are imploring Idahoans to get vaccinated. The highest case rates in the state right now are in north central Idaho, in Lewis, Idaho, Clearwater, and Nez Perce Counties. The statewide test positivity rate is up to 12.8 percent. Idaho Reports is airing a live special on the state’s hospital crisis, Thursday night at 8 pm on Idaho Public Television. Tune in to hear the latest on the status of the state’s healthcare systems, and get some answers to questions about COVID-19 vaccines.