DCH Reports Record COVID-19 Inpatient Surge

The latest reports from DCH show the health care provider is dealing with record numbers of patients seeking treatment for COVID-19.

As of 5 p.m. Sunday (December 13), 161 were receiving inpatient care for the novel Coronavirus at DCH's facilities. 32 of those patients are in the intensive care unit, and 14 COVID-positive patients are on a ventilator.

The Alabama Department of Public Health expects the recent surge in COVID-19 cases to continue to climb as those exposed to the virus over the Thanksgiving holiday become symptomatic.

While DCH will soon receive the first round of COVID-19 vaccines, the health care provider is urging West Alabama residents to do their part in preventing the spread of the virus by wearing a face mask, washing their hands, and practicing social distancing.

The Emergency Department at DCH is also under a tremendous strain and as such, patients are advised to only visit the ER in the event of a true emergency.