COVID-19 cases increased following the holiday season raising some concerns with Department of Public Health and Social Services officials. As of Jan. 6, Guam has reported six cases of the JN.1 variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Eight people were hospitalized due to COVID-19 as of Jan. 9. The JN.1 variant, known for its rapid growth, accounts for approximately 62% of currently circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Public Health encourages preventive measures and testing. Guam Memorial Hospital and Guam Regional Medical City have reinstated mask mandates due to the uptick. Health officials also emphasized that JN.1 doesn't pose an increased risk at this time.
In other public health news:
The Department of Public Health and Social Services in collaboration with the Guam District Office of the Social Security Administration, is urging the public to take advantage of the Medicare general enrollment period, which runs from Jan. 1 to March 31. Medicare, the health insurance program for individuals aged 65 or older, does provide coverage for those under 65 in specific situations. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is $174.70 in 2024. Eligible individuals can enroll online at www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare or contact the Guam Medicare Assistance Program at (671) 735-7415.
From public health to public safety:
Residents are advised against burning outdoors as the island braces for high winds expected between Wednesday morning and Thursday night. The National Weather Service issued advisories, including a high wind watch, fire weather watch, high surf advisory, high risk of rip currents, gale watch, and hazardous seas watch. Northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph, gusts up to 50 mph, leading to concerns of rapid spread of any fires. The community is urged to secure loose items, refrain from outdoor burning, and exercise caution in water-related activities.
Public Health encourages preventive measures and testing. Guam Memorial Hospital and Guam Regional Medical City have reinstated mask mandates due to the uptick. Health officials also emphasized that JN.1 doesn't pose an increased risk at this time.
In other public health news:
The Department of Public Health and Social Services in collaboration with the Guam District Office of the Social Security Administration, is urging the public to take advantage of the Medicare general enrollment period, which runs from Jan. 1 to March 31. Medicare, the health insurance program for individuals aged 65 or older, does provide coverage for those under 65 in specific situations. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B is $174.70 in 2024. Eligible individuals can enroll online at www.ssa.gov/benefits/medicare or contact the Guam Medicare Assistance Program at (671) 735-7415.
From public health to public safety:
Residents are advised against burning outdoors as the island braces for high winds expected between Wednesday morning and Thursday night. The National Weather Service issued advisories, including a high wind watch, fire weather watch, high surf advisory, high risk of rip currents, gale watch, and hazardous seas watch. Northeast winds of 30 to 40 mph, gusts up to 50 mph, leading to concerns of rapid spread of any fires. The community is urged to secure loose items, refrain from outdoor burning, and exercise caution in water-related activities.