The Allegan County Health Department  his warning citizens tube aware that Covid cases have declined, but the virus is still  hanging around.

The department issued the following this morning on line:

“As summer begins to wind down and fall approaches, respiratory season is always close to follow. Between COVID-19, Influenza, and the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) there is plenty to prepare for.

“COVID-19 has been seeing a decline in cases over the past few years, however while it has been decreasing COVID-19 is not gone. From January through the end of August, Allegan county has had 875 COVID-19 cases, which is a drop from 2023’s 1,147 cases during the same time, a 23.7% decrease from last year.

“If the same decrease is to be expected for the remainder of the year Allegan still looks to add another 910 cases during the end of 2024 (compared to 1193 in 2023).

“With COVID-19 cases declining we are seeing a resurgence in flu cases over the past few years. Allegan county has almost reached 2023’s total flu cases with four months remaining in 2024. Through August of 2024 Allegan County has already seen a 125.7% increase in flu cases compared to 2023, and is on track to more than double 2023’s total cases.

“September through around March is when we expect to see increases in respiratory diseases so its important to be prepared.

“Updating immunizations for flu, COVID-19 and RSV (for groups eligible for RSV immunization), washing hands and improving workflow, masking and physical distancing can help provide protection, along with testing to protect family, friends and coworkers.”