Hopkins experts advise caution as COVID-19 cases surge again – CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Experts at the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Research Center marked one million U.S. coronavirus deaths during their weekly briefing on Friday by urging vaccinations, boosters and mask use.

“It is made even more tragic by the fact that many of these deaths could have been prevented with vaccination,” said Dr. William Moss, Chief of Vaccinology at Johns Hopkins CRC. “We can’t afford to go deaf to the numbers.”

The clinical director of the CRC, Dr. Brian Garibaldi, promoted therapeutics and vaccines but urged wearing masks in public spaces.

“We know they prevent disease, and we know they can control disease and save lives,” said Dr. garibaldi “If you’re vaccinated and not yet boosted, why not?”

COVID infections are on the rise nationwide, up 168 percent over the past month. In Maryland, the COVID case rate has more than tripled during that time, according to the Department of Health. Data scientists say case numbers are likely much higher due to underreporting.

“We are now flying very blindly without understanding where the disease is located,” said CRC data director Beth Blauer.

dr Crystal Watson, head of public health at the CRC, says mask requirements should be considered as hospitalization rates rise.

“When we have that much COVID in the community, masking is a really good idea,” said Dr. watson

The American Academy of Pediatrics says cases in children are up 76 percent in two weeks. Now federal health advisers are pushing for a third dose of Pfizer for children between the ages of 5 and 11.

Vaccines for children under five could soon be around the corner. The FDA commissioner said a public hearing for Moderna’s vaccine for children under five would be held “as soon as possible” this week.