County hospital leaders ask for help with COVID-19 response
We need your help. We need you to be fully vaccinated and boosted so we can better care for you and our community.
In the last few weeks, COVID-19 hospitalizations have dramatically increased at our two hospitals in the county, Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center and University of Maryland Baltimore Washington Medical Center. Combined with a nationwide shortage of health care workers and the rapid transmission of the omicron variant, we have reached another critical point in our response the pandemic.
It is important that we recognize the significant burden our teams have carried for nearly two years — they are tired. They have been working continuously to ensure every patient and family gets the quality care they deserve. You have supported us in countless ways throughout the pandemic and, once again, we need your support to get us through this latest surge.
The smallest daily habits can make an enormous impact. Wash your hands, wear a well-fitting mask when you leave your home, practice social distancing, stay home if you are sick, and avoid crowds. Now is the time to get fully vaccinated and receive a booster shot. It is the best defense and you will be better protected from severe illness and death from COVID-19. The majority of patients hospitalized are lacking vaccination and/or a booster.
Testing is currently limited, but if you can, get tested if you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms.
There is a reason you hear these recommendations repeatedly — because they are all effective in slowing the spread of the virus and it will take all of us working together to get through this. Our Emergency Departments are here for you as always, but please come don’t come solely for COVID-19 testing.
We’ve come so far and we will not give up. Through every new variant and surge, we are committed to serving you with all of our partners. Thank you for entrusting us with your care and for doing your part to protect your family, friends, and loved ones.