COVID-19 in Hamilton declared “moderate and stable” but numbers on the rise

Hamilton Public Health is deeming the COVID-19 situation “moderate and stable,” but all numbers except for ICU patients are on the rise.

Influenza cases are also increasing, as to be expected in the middle of flu season.

The seven-day average for new COVID cases is up to 29 (from 24 last week) and the weekly incidence rate (per 100,000 people) jumped to 34 (from 29). The number of patients in intensive care in Hamilton hospitals remains at zero but the daily average for new cases in hospitals is up to 1.4 (vs 1.0) and outbreaks at long term care homes, hospitals and retirement centres is now at 20, from 15 and 11 the last two reporting periods.

The per cent positivity rate spiked as well, moving to 21.7 per cent from 18.3 per cent, and wastewater signals of the virus is also up.

The presence of the influenza virus is considered moderate and stable, with the per cent positivity rate climbing to 8.2 per cent (from 5.8 per cent and 1.7 per cent the past two periods), with wastewater signals for Influenza A considered stable. Influenza B hasn’t been detected in Hamilton in six months.

The (almost) good news? The respiratory syncytial virus, which normally affects children and older adults, is down, with the per cent positivity rate for RSV dropping to 6.3 per cent from 8.7 per cent and 10.3 per cent. Outbreaks are up a tick, however (three, from one last week) and wastewater signals are on the rise as well.