Medical City Healthcare reports rise in COVID-19 cases

Changes in reporting and testing practices may be responsible for low community awareness

Dallas, TX — In advance of July 4 gatherings, Medical City Healthcare hospitals and the CareNow Urgent Care Network in North Texas are heightening community awareness about an increase in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks. At Medical City Dallas, positive cases have doubled in the past month.

"Our community is experiencing a rise in COVID-19 cases," says Joseph Parra, MD, chief medical officer at Medical City Healthcare. "While hospitalizations remain low, we are seeing notable increases in respiratory virus indicators, particularly at our CareNow clinics, which provide rapid testing for non-emergency cases."

Despite low hospitalization rates, the increase in cases highlights the need for ongoing vigilance in the community. Though the coronavirus is no longer a reportable condition to the Texas Department of State Health Services, DHHS reported a 19.4% increase in cases in week 24 statewide, consistent with CareNow Clinic test increases. DHHS officials attribute asymptomatic COVID-19 cases, the ease of at-home testing and the availability of antiviral medications as additional contributors to underreporting.

Dr. Parra emphasizes the continued importance of preventive measures:

• Stay home when feeling unwell
• Keep up with COVID-19 vaccination and booster shots
• Practice recommended precautions such as good hand hygiene

“These steps are crucial in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and protecting our most vulnerable populations,” says Dr. Parra.

Patients with underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for severe COVID-19 infection. Serious symptoms that may require a trip to the emergency room include:

• Trouble breathing
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• Confusion
• Pale grey/blue skin and lips

Medical City Healthcare is committed to providing high-quality care and encourages the community to utilize available resources, including the CareNow Urgent Care network, to help diagnose and treat COVID-19. Vaccinations and booster shots are also recommended and widely available.