LincolnHealth reported 14 new COVID-19 cases from 245 tests for the week of March 14. With testing numbers steady and a decrease by over a half of the previous week’s cases, the positivity rate fell to 5.71%, the second lowest since July 2021.

Breakthrough cases, those who have been vaccinated and contracted the virus, also fell to six patients, or 43%. Four of the six patients, or 29% of cases, had at least one booster shot. Cases for those under 18 remain in the 26-35% range which stabled last fall.

LincolnHealth’s John Martins said space needs based on patients and bed availability is still a major focus for hospital staff and administration who continue to meet to assess availability. As a result, more inpatient surgeries have been able to move forward, he said.

LincolnHealth encourages people to vaccinate and get boosted as research continues to show booster shots are effective in reducing illness requiring hospitalization.

Said Martins, “Clearly, we are encouraged by the drop in the COVID positivity rates and hope the trend continues.”