In a virtual meeting yesterday with elected officials from across Georgia, Dr. Kathleen Toomey Commissioner of Public Heath in Georgia provided an update on the status of the Covid 19 pandemic as well as the progress of vaccinations in the state. According to the Commissioner, Georgia is doing much better on infection rates, but the delay in vaccine delivery means that it remains vitally important that everyone continues with washing hands frequently, distancing from others, and wearing masks.
The recent onset of variant strains of Covid 19 is also being monitored closely. Cases of the South African strain have not yet been detected in Georgia. But, the U.K. strain is now being seen in Georgia and reportedly is 40% stronger in transmission rates than original virus. The good news is that the vaccines now in use continue to be effective against all strains of Covid 19.
In the hour long discussion, Dr. Toomey told Mayors and other elected officials that the plan going forward for vaccinations will be federally administered and hopefully delays in production will be eliminated. Official estimated of widespread availability of vaccines range from late spring to mid-summer.
