Mississippi Reaches Out for Help Amid Record High COVID-19 Cases

August 19, 2021

While more people are getting vaccinated in Mississippi, the state still has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the nation, and health officials say the number of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths have reached an all-time high.  

All of this is putting a strain on a severely understaffed health care system and health care providers, some of whom have resigned due to burnout.  The state’s school system is also under stress, as rising COVID cases among students, teachers and staff have forced many schools to return to virtual learning.

Jim Craig, senior deputy and director of health protection for the Mississippi State Department of Health, announced Wednesday that the state has issued an order that would allow certified paramedics and advanced emergency medical technicians to help care for patients in the hospital when they are not on duty.  The state has also turned to the federal government and Samaritan’s Purse for help.  

To view more of Shirley L. Smith's work, visit her blog at https://shirleysmithblog.wordpress.com/.