At this time, the United South and Eastern Tribes Tribal Epidemiology Center (USET TEC) is unwilling to change the current recommendations as outlined in the COVID-19 Cases on the Rise Again and Screen Before You Convene & Community Risk Level Recommendations alerts to best prioritize the health of Tribal Nations. According to CDC data, 1,275 (39.6%) counties districts, or territories are still classified as having a high Community level and 1,309 (40.7%) counties districts, or territories are still classified as having medium Community level. While the 7-day moving average of new cases has decreased 13.8% in the past week, the circulating variants of Omicron have the potential to spread easier and may be less affected by current vaccines and treatments available. Furthermore, rates of vaccination in the USA are relatively high with 67.3% of population as fully vaccinated, Indian Health Service reports only 42.5% of the population vaccinated and those IHS facilities in the Nashville area as 53.3% of the population fully vaccinated. Those with immunocompromising conditions and the unvaccinated are at an increased risk for having complications with COVID-19 infection. The USET TEC acknowledges that treatment in this group should be prioritized, but also continues to support clinical treatment with antivirals, such as Paxlovid, for any individual that has COVID-19 and is experiencing symptoms.
COVID-19 vaccines, masking, testing, and isolation still provide optimal protection and can be used to alleviate the burden of disease in Tribal communities. As children return to school and the CDC eases control measures, the USET TEC remains vigilant to protect the communities we serve and as such, recommend the continued use of our original guidance. The USET TEC is closely monitoring the status of the pandemic and will reevaluate its COVID-19 recommendations as more information becomes available.
References:
CDC streamlines COVID-19 guidance to help the public better protect themselves and understand their risk
Summary of Guidance for Minimizing the Impact of COVID-19 on Individual
Persons, Communities, and Health Care Systems — United States, August 2022
COVID Data Tracker Weekly Review
|