Volusia Adds Nearly 4,000 COVID Cases, Flagler Adds 562

Daytona Beach, FL – Both Volusia and Flagler counties have seen a sharp increase in new COVID cases. For the week ending Dec. 30, Volusia added 3,939 cases for a positivity rate of 22.4 percent. Flagler had 562 new cases with a positivity rate of 19 percent. Statewide, 298,455 new cases were reported for a positivity rate of 26.5 percent. In central Florida, Dr. Neil Finkler, chief clinical officer for AdventHealth Central Florida, said that “the health care system is prepared for the increase, which so far remains significantly lower than during the Delta surge, which peaked in August with about 1,700 hospitalized patients.”  The Omicron variant is more contagious than previous strains even among those who are vaccinated.   “Those who get boosted will have dramatic reduction in the need for hospitalization,” said Dr.  Finkler. “Get yourself boosted, get your loved ones boosted. It’s the No. 1 thing you can do.” Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS pharmacies are taking appointments for drive-through testing. The Florida Department of Health has nine sites listed in Volusia County. There are also  nine testing sites listed in Flagler County.