Alaska COVID-19 and Influenza Weekly Case Update: August 14 – August 20, 2022

COVID and Flu Weekly Report

Hello, 

The Alaska Department of Health Weekly COVID-19 and Influenza Update has been updated with data from the week of August 14 - August 20, 2022 and can be viewed here

Key Findings: 

  • COVID-19 transmission remained widespread in most parts of Alaska during the week of August 14–August 20, 2022, with evidence for increasing cases in some areas but decreases elsewhere.

  • The number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 has remained steady over the past several weeks (see graph below illustrating hospital beds occupied by persons with COVID-19). Most parts of Alaska are at the “medium” or “high” COVID Community Level as defined by CDC. Learn more about CDC’s recommended prevention steps at each community level here.

  • CDC no longer recommends quarantine of exposed persons in most settings, regardless of vaccination status. People with symptoms of COVID-19 should still get tested, and if they test positive, notify their contacts. Contacts should wear a mask and get tested. Updated guidance for isolation and for what to do if exposed is available. Learn more about CDC’s Summary of Guidance for Minimizing the Impact of COVID-19 on Individual Persons, Communities, and Health Care Systems — United States, August 2022 and CDC’s updated COVID-19 guidance practices.
  • Respiratory viruses can circulate year-round in Alaska. Actions such as staying home when sick, washing hands, and improving ventilation can protect you, your family, and your community from COVID-19, influenza, and other pathogens.

Information and Resources:

  • The State of Alaska COVID-19 vaccines update page

  • The State of Alaska COVID-19 information page provides more information about the virus and how individuals and businesses can protect themselves and others from transmission.

  • The DOH Business and Employer Toolkits page has communications resources for any organization that wants to keep workers, partners, clients, and customers informed about COVID-19.

  • DOH COVID-19 Communication Toolkit provides PSAs, flyers, and social media graphics.
  • Subscribe to the DOH Insights blog for behind-the-scenes news about Alaska’s COVID-19 response and other efforts to protect the health and well-being of Alaskans.

  • DOH offers free presentations upon request to groups about COVID-19, the vaccines, COVID-19 prevention, or other health topics upon request. Learn more or request a presentation on our Speaker’s Bureau web page.

  • For the most up-to-date case information, see the Alaska COVID-19 Information Hub dashboard: data.coronavirus.alaska.gov. All dashboard data are updated Wednesdays (except holidays). 

  • For DOH media inquiries, please contact clinton.bennett@alaska.gov.