Wheeless urges caution during COVID-19 spike

County Judge offers update as local cases skyrocket

With no end in sight to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, County Judge Woody Wheeless, who made almost daily updates on social media in the early days of the coronavirus crisis — except for a period in which he himself was incapacitated due to a bout with the virus — has taken once again to offering the latest information about how COVID-19 is impacting the community.

“COVID-19 update,”

Continued on Page 2 WHEELESS (cont.)

Wheeless said on Friday, “The state of Arkansas continues to set daily records with new active cases.

Todays numbers are just over 8,400. Over 50,000 Arkansans are currently positive which is also a record. Please review the pictures in this post and look at the hospital data.

You will see a continuing upward trend with those in the hospital and on a vent.

Crittenden County is also experiencing record numbers with 1,370 active cases and 193 deaths.”

The death toll increase came from two additional deaths reported on Friday morning. Crittenden County and the State of Arkansas are far from alone in the surge.

“Of all the tests given nationwide today, over 41% were positive,” Wheeless said. “The numbers continue to soar and I pray the peak is near.”

The judge also offered some info on the omicron strain of the virus, noting that the most common symptoms of the variant include: cough, fatigue and congestion and runny nose.

“Unlike in previous variants, the loss of taste and smell seems to be uncommon, he said. “Early evidence suggests that for most people, at least for those who are up to date on their vaccines, omicron appears to result in mild illness that can resemble the common cold.”

With health care providers overwhelmed, Wheeless outlined steps for residents to take.

“If you suspect you have COVID and are experiencing no symptoms or mild symptoms, please don’t go to the Emergency Room to be tested,” he said. “See your doctor or visit a clinic for testing and treatment.

All emergency rooms in the Mid-South are asking not to come unless you are very sick as they are overwhelmed with all types of sickness and a shortage in staff.”

Wheeless hoped that the recent spike is a quick one.

“This is a very fast spreading virus and I pray it will come and go in the coming weeks,” he said.

“Remember, just because you’ve been fully vaccinated doesn’t mean you can’t get the virus. It appears to be hitting people with or without the shots. Please use any necessary precautions to protect yourself and