While there is a downward trend for COVID-19 cases nationwide, the decline hasn’t yet reached Ingham County. 

“While the overall national numbers are going down, the numbers in the State of Michigan are not going down yet," Vail said.

Vail mentioned that the numbers point towards a potential plateau in cases, but explained that this plateau is still much higher than they would like. 

Twenty-eight percent of cases are in the 20-29 age bracket, The age group that has historically had the highest amount of positive cases since summer 2020. 

Racial disparities that have existed throughout the pandemic still affect the community. In terms of Black residents in Ingham County, they face a 60% higher number by rate than caucasian residents.

“That is, I believe, about the highest disproportionate burden by rate that we’ve seen,” Vail said.

Additionally, while more positive cases come in for Ingham County women, more men are dying of COVID-19, Vail said. 

Ingham County still requires 17,978 people to get vaccinated to reach their goal of 70% of the county's population being vaccinated.

Vail said she recommends that everyone gets the flu vaccine as October begins, and the booster COVID-19 vaccine if they are eligible for it.

Lastly, Vail said there will be a drive-in vaccination clinic this Saturday, Oct. 9, where COVID-19 vaccines, boosters and flu shots will all be available at no cost. This clinic will take place in the parking lot of Ingham County’s Human Services Building.