Omicron subvariant a 'stubborn adversary' as COVID-19 cases rise in Oregon

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon health officials shared an update Wednesday on the state's fight against the coronavirus pandemic.

State health officer and state epidemiologist Dr. Dean Sidelinger highlighted the latest data and the ongoing efforts to keep Oregonians "informed and safe, including through access to vaccines, boosters, and treatments."

Dr. Sidelinger said the risk of exposure exists in every Oregon community. Health officials said the Omicron variant BA.2 remains highly transmissible and widespread statewide.

"In the four weeks since our last update, test positivity has risen from 7 % on April 20 to 11.4% on May 16," according to Dr. Sidelinger.

According to the Oregon Health Authority, during the last month, daily reported cases more than doubled from a rolling seven-day average of 600 cases a day on April 20 to 1,350 reported on May 16.

Dr. Sidelinger noted that most cases are not reported to public health because testing is happening at home, and some people are not getting tested for COVID-19.

Hospitalizations have nearly doubled from 110 to 251 COVID-19 positive patients. According to OHSU's modeling, Oregon's hospitalization rate will peak at 321 on June 10.

"We're cautiously optimistic the overall number of Oregon’s hospitalized patients with COVID-19 will not exceed our hospital system’s ability to care for them." Dr. Sidelinger said.

Dr. Sidelinger said those with underlying medical conditions or who are immunocompromised should consider contacting their health care providers and make a plan to get tested and receive treatment if they were to become ill.

"Some of us will continue to be more cautious because of our own health or the health of those around us. Let’s support each other as we move through this phase of the COVID-19 pandemic," said Dr. Sidelinger.

You can watch the full briefing below: