New COVID-19 cases are reported in Riley County

Riley County health officials have identified 106 new COVID-19 cases and 59 additional recoveries since the last report on Wednesday, December 1. There are currently 147 active cases in Riley County.

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan is caring for 10 COVID-positive patients at this time, 4 of whom are in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with 3 on ventilators. One patient in the ICU is fully vaccinated. 

“We are seeing quite a bit of spread in our young school-aged children, and I highly encourage parents to get their kids vaccinated,” said Local Health Officer Julie Gibbs. “Vaccine doses are widely available through the health department, doctor’s offices, and local pharmacies."

Influenza, MMR, and other immunizations are also available through Riley County Health Department for children and adults.

"Local doctors also report that the flu is spreading right now," said Gibbs. "Vaccines are our best weapons against disease, so staying on track with regular and yearly vaccinations, and getting a COVID vaccine, will do a lot to help people stay healthy.”