Health officials recommended new COVID-19 guidelines

In a meeting between health officials on Friday, new guidance is being implemented due to a resurgence in COVID-19, WLBT reports.

The Mississippi State Department of Health recommends that anyone age 65 and older, or any individuals that have health issues, are to avoid large indoor gatherings for the next few weeks, even if vaccinated.

State Health Officer Dr. Thomas Dobbs stated the delta variant of COVID-19 has almost entirely taken over new cases. State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Byers says the trend in hospitalizations and case numbers are on an upward trend.

So far the death numbers have not gone up, however, Byers states those totals tend to lag behind case number totals.

Among the items discussed, a new CDC guidance which states vaccinated teachers and students do not need to wear masks will be reviewed and schools will be updated with Mississippi-specific guidance.

Senior Deputy and Director of Health Protection Jim Craig stated that work is currently being done to facilitate pop-up vaccination sites which will be available in Ashland, Lucedale, Amory, Corinth, Okolona, Fulton, Holly Springs and Louisville. Starting July 19, free COVID vaccinations can be obtained at all county health departments.