Marin County Public Health Status Update for September 22, 2023, includes Watching for Winter Virus Surge; Wildfire Smoke Persists in Marin; Free COVID-19 Tests from Federal Supplies; E-Bike Injuries on the Rise; and COVID-19 Data Update.
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The Marin County Public Health Status Update is published weekly to share news and resources related to pandemic response and recovery, emergency preparedness, and other public health priorities.
Watching for Winter Virus Surge
As falls begins, local RSV and Flu activity remain at a low level. In Marin, the annual winter virus surge usually starts between October and December. A recent study shows that wastewater levels offer the earliest signal of community virus transmission. Those interested in tracking the onset of the local virus season should visit Marin Public Health's flu, RSV and COVID-19 wastewater surveillance sites. Data is updated twice weekly.
Wildfire Smoke Persists in Marin
Since September 18, drifting wildfire smoke has worsened Marin's air quality, consistently pushing the AQI above 150. This elevates the risk of respiratory and heart issues, especially for sensitive groups. To stay safe when air quality is poor, refer to Marin Public Health's latest health advisory and visit Marin’s Wildfire Air Quality website. The most important steps are to monitor AQI levels, remain indoors with closed windows and doors, and consider wearing an N95 mask outdoors when AQI is greater than 150.
Free COVID-19 Tests from Federal Supplies
The federal government will restart offering free COVID-19 home tests to Americans beginning on September 25. Households can order up to four tests through Covidtests.gov. Marin residents are encouraged to order free tests as we anticipate increased demand during winter virus season. In addition, residents with expired home tests should follow instructions for verifying extended expiration dates, as many home tests remain effective beyond their printed dates.
E-Bike Injuries on the Rise
E-bikes offer freedom to travel within communities and enjoy the outdoors. They also carry risks above those of regular bicycles. In Marin, bike-related 911 calls nearly tripled for 12–17-year-olds between 2017 to 2022. Marin Public Health is joining policymakers, healthcare providers, law enforcement, and the cycling community to respond to this trend. The focus is on education and awareness, enforcement of existing laws, especially helmet laws, and consideration of local ordinances to enhance safety.
COVID-19 Data Update
Below is just a snapshot of local COVID-19 data. Find a more in-depth analysis of COVID-19 trends on the Marin Data & Surveillance webpage, our Data FAQ, or Marin County's Open Data Portal.
|
Actively Circulating Variants |
XBB.1.16, EG.5 |
|---|
|
Marin County COVID-19 Hospitalizations |
Today’s Report |
|---|---|
|
Hospitalized COVID-19 Confirmed Patients |
11 |
| Patients Hospitalized "for" COVID-19 Disease | 5 |
| ICU Daily COVID-19 Patient Census | 1 |
|
Settings Experiencing Outbreaks |
Today’s Report |
|---|---|
|
Long-Term Care and Congregate Living Facilities |
9 |
| Schools |
0 |
Resource Link Library
What to do if...
You’ve tested Positive | You’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19
Online Resources
Vaccine locations | Booster Information | Free COVID-19 testing | Marin COVID-19 Data | State COVID-19 Data | State Race & Ethnicity Data | State Variant Data | CDC Community Transmission Data