INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb has extended the state’s public health emergency due to COVID-19 for another month.
Governor Holcomb said Thursday that despite the state's mitigation and vaccination efforts, the coronavirus "a threat to the health, safety and welfare of all Indiana residents," and further action is needed "to continue to address, control and reduce the threat posed by COVID-19."
He said renewing the public health emergency declaration through May 31 ensures Indiana can quickly respond in the event conditions get worse.
Currently, data show COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are on the rise, particularly in northern Indiana.
"The virus does not respect state lines," said Dr. Kristina Box, the state health commissioner. "COVID is still here and it's not going away any time soon. Please stay vigilant. Please don't let your guard down."
In addition to wearing a face mask and social distancing, Dr. Box said the best way to get back to normal is to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
She said about 33-percent of the state’s eligible residents have been fully vaccinated, but she said there’s a long way to go with vaccinations and demand has been decreasing.
"Studies show that individuals who are fully immunized, or two weeks beyond their second dose, have a 90 percent decrease in getting infected with COVID-19; and that the vaccine is 99 percent effective in preventing severe illness and death," Dr. Box said.
Box noted, in contrast, the annual flu vaccine only is about 40 to 60 percent effective at preventing illness due to the flu.
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