COVID-19 cases are on the rise in Western MA and most of the US, largely due to the highly contagious Omicron variant. Massachusetts is experiencing the highest incidence of new cases since the beginning of the pandemic. Although the Omicron variant seems to result in less severe illness and hospitalization, the massive volume of new cases has led to more hospitalizations and a stress on the health care system. According to MA Department of Public Health, as of January 5, 2022, 89% of non-ICU beds and 66% of ICU beds are occupied in Western MA.

Vaccination is still our best protection against severe illness from the virus. Although breakthrough cases are happening, vaccinated individuals are less likely to experience severe illness or require hospitalization compared to those who are unvaccinated.

Please continue to practice common sense prevention (wear a mask, avoid large crowds, wash your hands, etc.) and get vaccinated and boosted (if you are eligible). Together, we will make it through this pandemic.

Vaccines are still the best protection against getting severely ill with COVID-19, including the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Las vacunas siguen siendo la mejor protección contra una enfermedad grave con COVID-19, incluyendo la variante omicron altamente contagiosa.

Unfortunately, breakthrough cases are happening with Omicron. Testing is another important tool for keeping you and your loved ones safe. Make sure you follow strong prevention measures.

Find more information about testing in western MA on our new Testing Resources page.

Here's what to do if you test positive.

Desafortunadamente, el progreso de Omicron está occuriendo. Las pruebas son otra herramienta importante para que usted y sus seres queridos estén seguros. Asegúrese de seguir estrictas medidas de prevención.

Encuentre más información sobre las pruebas en el oeste de MA en nuestra nueva página de Recursos para Pruebas.