Benton Franklin Health District Reports Increasing COVID-19 Infection Rate

KENNEWICK, Wash.--The Benton Franklin Health District reports COVID-19 increases in both infection rate and hospitalization over the last two weeks. Health Officer Amy Person made the announcement at press conference Thursday morning.

"Case rates have increased by 300% in the last 14 days. Franklin County has the highest case rate in four western states," said Person.

As of August 12, COVID-19 patients accounted for close 19% of hospitalizations in the areas four regional medical facilities. There have been some breakthrough cases of vaccinated individuals contracting the virus. However, Dr. Person said is to be expected.

"Vaccine breakthrough do not imply the vaccines are not working. The purpose of vaccinations is to reduce hospitalization and deaths from COVID-19, and they remain highly successful."

Numbers from the health department show 94% of COVID-19 hospitalizations are among those who are not vaccinated.