Health

New Hampshire seeing highest level of COVID-19 cases reported during pandemic

CONCORD, N.H. — The state of New Hampshire is about to launch a one day “Operation Booster Blitz” at pop-up vaccine sites across the state in an effort to lower the number of COVID-19 cases.

“There is no doubt we are seeing record levels of cases. We’re seeing record levels of hospitalizations. This winter surge that we predicted is unfortunately now rearing its ugly head and we are definitely in the throes of it,” Governor Chris Sununu said during a Tuesday news conference. “We do need everyone to get vaccinated. We need everyone to get their booster shots.”

Sununu says the state is seeing a rapid increase in those needing hospital care, “The hospitalization piece is one thing that we’re really watching very, very closely.”

The governor signed a new executive order Tuesday to “assist with capacity challenges.” Sununu emphasized the order was not a state of emergency.

State Epidemiologist, Dr. Benjamin Chan echoed Sununu’s concerns about rising COVID-19 cases saying “We are currently seeing the highest level in our communities that we have experienced at any point during this pandemic.”

Dr. Chan said New Hampshire is averaging almost 1,000 new infections per day.

The state’s positivity rate currently sits at about 9.5 percent, said Chan as he announced four new deaths due to COVID-19 bringing the state total to 1,678 for the pandemic.

Sununu said New Hampshire will have an “Operation Booster Blitz” on Saturday, December 11.

The one day event will offer booster shots at 20 different sites in the state. Sununu said the state is seeing the demand for boosters increasing, and he is urging residents to take advantage of boosters that are now available.

Sununu also said one million at home rapid tests are on their way to the Granite State within the next few weeks. He said residents will be able to order them online and have them shipped directly to their homes by Amazon, free of charge.

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