We hate to write it but COVID-19 cases are on the rise again.

Of the 14 counties in the Southwest Georgia Health District, five are listed as being in the high category for COVID-19 levels in the community.

Two of those five are Grady and Thomas counties.

COVID-19 cases, which waned in spring, are back on the march. Statewide, there have been more than 31,000 new cases in the last two weeks.

In Grady and Thomas counties, that number is 67 new cases over the last two weeks in Grady and 102 in Thomas for the same period. 

And yet, less than half of the population in either county, and throughout the Southwest Health District, has been fully vaccinated and has had a booster shot. 

Since the pandemic started more than two years ago, there have been more than 9,000 confirmed cases in Thomas County and more than 3,800 confirmed cases in Grady County.

“While we are not seeing the rate of increase that we have seen in previous surges, any increase is something to be taken extremely seriously,” said Dr. William Grow, M.D., FACP, South Health District director. “If you have not been vaccinated or are not up-to-date on your booster schedule, now is the perfect time.”

Health officials offer familiar warnings and encourage advice we all know but are well worth repeating with this uptick in COVID-19 cases.

In addition to vaccination, public health officials encourage everyone to practice other mitigation steps including social distancing when possible, hand washing, avoiding crowded settings and staying home if sick.

If experiencing any symptoms of illness, schedule a test through the local health department, hospital, private provider or pharmacy. If testing negative but still don’t feel well, stay home until feeling better, health officials said. 

“Whether it is COVID, the flu, a cold or ‘just allergies,’ if you are not feeling well, stay home,” they added.

After the past two and a half years, we all know the advice by heart. But with the rise of cases, we should again make basic precautions part of our regular routine. 

We’re not suggesting shut-downs or lockdowns, or even a return to wearing masks, but rather we encourage people to use common sense and common courtesy for your health and the health of others.