PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The sheer volume of omicron cases is having a dramatic impact on hospitals and public health.
The official number of COVID-19 cases during the surge of the omicron variant is substantially lower than the actual number. A significant number of home tests are not reported by people.
In addition, many who are positive can’t get home tests due to a lack of supply.
Hospitals were already short-staffed before omicron, due to the impact of the past two years. Numbers continue to drop dramatically as employees in all areas are testing positive.
If there is any positive news, it’s that the omicron variant does not appear to be as aggressive — especially in those vaccinated and boosted. However, public education needs to continue.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.