Delaware’s unvaccinated make up bulk of COVID-19 hospitalizations, deaths

As the number of Delaware’s positive COVID-19 cases continues to tick up, the Division of Public Health says unvaccinated or partially vaccinated people account for 85 percent of hospitalizations and 89 percent of deaths, according to an Aug. 23-29 report of statistics.

“The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated,” read DPH’s Sept. 3 vaccination status report.

Of the total number of COVID-19 cases for Aug. 23-29, the report states 2,023 of the 2,582, or 78 percent, were unvaccinated or partially vaccinated individuals.

The percentages increase for hospitalizations with 85 percent – 100 out of 117 – and deaths, 89 percent – 8 of 9.

“Vaccination continues to be the most important factor in reducing deaths and hospitalizations from COVID-19,” DPH states.

DelVAX public access portal

Delawareans can now access their immunization record through the DelVAX Public Access Portal. Parents and legal guardians can print official immunization records for their child/children (ages 0 through 17 years), and adults ages 18 years and over can print an official immunization record for themselves. For details and a link to the DelVAX Public Access Portal, go to dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/ipp/portalflyer.pdf.

The portal will assist those who need to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination but may have lost their vaccination card. While DPH does not replace the card, Delawareans now have an easier way to access their vaccination record. DelVAX is the official record of a person’s vaccination data. Individuals who need assistance can call 1-800-282-8672 or email DelVAX@delaware.gov. Responses to emails and calls received after regular business hours or on weekends may take up to 48 hours.