Ascension Providence Waco COVID Vaccine: Surge in Hospitalizations Highlights Need for Increased Testing

The city of Waco, Texas, has seen a significant surge in COVID-related hospitalizations over the past few weeks, with 52 people currently hospitalized and 49 of the county's available ICU beds in use. This spike has added to an already strained healthcare system, which frequently ran at capacity prior to the pandemic.

Stephanie Alvey, Public Health Emergency Preparedness Coordinator for the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District, emphasized the importance of testing in motivating community members to take safety precautions more seriously. 'Testing is so important because it's one of the biggest drivers for impacting behavior,' she said. 'If you have access to tests and are curious about whether you might have COVID, you're going to be more likely to take steps to protect yourself.'

As a result, the Waco-McLennan County Public Health District has launched mobile testing sites across the city, providing free tests to community members. These sites were established in late September after the state government and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services designated Waco as a candidate for surge testing due to its high percentage of hospitalizations related to COVID-19.

For Baylor University students, there are additional resources available. The university offers 24/7 free telehealth services, which allow students to receive professional health advice at any time. Registered nurses who have been specially trained in delivering care over the phone can help diagnose and treat conditions, providing patients with personalized guidance on how to manage their symptoms.

In addition, Baylor University students have access to a nurse line after hours, on weekends, and holidays. If you're not feeling well and the health center is closed, you can call (254) 710-1010 to speak with a registered nurse who can provide advice and support.

With free testing now widely available in Waco, community members are encouraged to take advantage of this resource to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19. By getting tested, individuals can identify whether they have the virus and take steps to isolate themselves if necessary, helping to slow the spread of the disease.

In conclusion, the surge in hospitalizations in Waco highlights the need for increased testing and emphasizes the importance of taking safety precautions seriously. By working together, we can reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep our community healthy.

Ascension providence waco covid vaccine