The year of 2020 was the year of the COVID-19 pandemic – or so we thought. Now two years into the future, COVID cases are continuing to soar to record numbers. What many thought would be a quick couple of months of isolation has turned into a 24-month long battle against the raging COVID-19 virus. 

From the beginning of January 2020 to now, there have been over 60 million cases of COVID-19, including over 836,000 deaths, according to the CDC. In Pennsylvania alone there have been over 2.27 million cases and over 37,000 deaths. As numbers continue rising, restrictions lower and the concern of citizens skyrocket.

Nationwide, hospitalization levels are settling down into a steady line. Currently, there are around 135,000 total hospitalizations according to the CDC. Luckily, with an increase in vaccinated individuals, the number is much lower than previously predicted. With the vaccines working and the boosters rolling out, many medical professionals are hoping that we will be on the mend from the pandemic.

In an interview with Healthline on the topic of the pandemic, Doctor William Schanaffer spoke on his views regarding the influx of hospitalizations.

“Our primary focus should be on preventing hospitalizations and deaths. That is where the painful tragedies are, where the stress on the healthcare system is most severe and also where the greatest financial costs are,” he said.

In Mount Nittany Hospital alone, there is a rate of 75.8% of individuals in the Intensive Care Unit are sick with COVID and in a dangerous condition. In adult inpatient beds, there is a rate of 84.2%. This is largely higher than cases dating back to December of 2020, where the average percentages were 50% or below, according to The Reno Gazette Journal.

Currently, 86 million Americans are fully vaccinated and have received boosters, according to the CDC. The CDC and other health officials are urging schools, districts, and communities to promote getting the vaccine and wearing masks when necessary to protect not only yourself, but those around you as well.

The rising percentages of cases and hospitalizations are raising a concern throughout the country as millions of people suffer from the virus. Although it is unsure when the COVID-19 pandemic will end, there are steps you can take to prevent yourself from getting the virus which is including, but not limited to: washing your hands frequently with soap and water, wearing a mask, and making sure you are up to date on your COVID-19 vaccinations and booster.