COVID-19 Update Questions

As we near the one-year anniversary of Georgia’s initial COVID-19 lockdown, many face caution fatigue. The constant influx of distressing information from alarmists and theorists alike is enough to make anyone want to close their news app. Here’s a quick update on COVID-19 without the scary headlines and frightening photos.

How many COVID-19 cases and COVID19-related deaths have been confirmed in Georgia and Fulton County?

Confirmed cases of COVID-19 reached an alltime high around January 8 with a seven-day rolling average of about 7,300. Thankfully, the rate of new cases took a nosedive after that second wave and the AJC estimates that between February 4 and February 11, there have been an average of about 1,000 new confirmed cases per day. The numbers in Fulton County have also decreased with an estimated 7-day rolling average of about 332 new cases as of February 11.

How many people have been vaccinated in Georgia so far?

As of February 11, the Georgia Department of Public Health states 1,353,978 vaccines have been administered to Georgia residents.

How far along are we in Georgia’s Vaccine Rollout Plan?

We’re currently still in Phase 1A, which includes healthcare workers, long-term care facility staff and residents, residents aged 65 and up and their caregivers, and law enforcement. In Phase 1B, non-healthcare essential workers “who perform job tasks across critical infrastructure sectors, ensuring continuity of functions critical to public health, safety, economic and national security.” Phase 1C will include residents “aged 16-64 with medical conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19.

If I’m a member of an eligible group, how do I get vaccinated? Do I need an appointment?

Yes, you need an appointment. There are currently no walk-in appointments available for COVID-19 vaccinations at any site in Georgia. To make an appointment, the Georgia Department of Public Health’s website has an extensive COVID Vaccination Site Locator. Kroger, Publix, and Ingles are also offering the vaccine in their clinics.