Batesville, IN — There has been an increase in COVID-19 patients requiring hospitalization in July compared to the previous three months at Margaret Mary Health, although overall hospitalization numbers remain low compared to the volumes experienced in January and February.
The positivity rate for COVID-19 at Margaret Mary appears to significantly increase in July, but the total number of individuals coming in for testing is much lower due to at-home testing, resulting in an overall higher percentage of positive cases because those patients coming in to be tested are often symptomatic and seeking medical care. Overall, the state reported positive cases in Ripley and Franklin counties also increased in July from previous months, although the numbers remain much lower than those experienced in early 2022. However, it is understood that total cases are likely underreported due to the increase in available at-home testing kits.
For individuals who have been exposed or are experiencing mild COVID-19 symptoms, it is recommended an at-home test kit be completed. Test kits can be purchased at retail pharmacies and free at-home test kits can be ordered online from covidtests.gov.
Margaret Mary Health also offers COVID-19 testing with rapid results in their provider practices in Batesville, Brookville, Milan, and Osgood. To schedule an appointment for testing, call your primary care office. Walk-in testing is also available at the Brookville and Osgood minor care locations.
For additional information on free community test sites and retail test sites, visit coronavirus.in.gov. COVID-19 vaccines are available for everyone ages 6 months and older. Appointments can be scheduled Monday – Friday at the MMH Occupational Health and Wellness Center in Batesville by calling 812-932-5105. For additional information visit mmhealth.org.
