Princeton Sees COVID Cases Spike, Driving Push For Booster Shots

PRINCETON, NJ — The Princeton Health Department on Monday reported a spike in COVID-19 cases throughout the community. These cases are occurring among both vaccinated and unvaccinated populations.

The surge in coronavirus cases comes as New Jersey hit a seven-week high in COVID-19 related hospitalizations. The state is also bracing for the arrival of the new Omicron variant.

As of Nov. 29, the Municipality reported 35 new cases in the past seven days and 56 cases in 14 days. "Although cases are occurring in both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, there is a substantial difference in the severity of symptoms in those who are unvaccinated," the health department said in the Municipal newsletter.

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Residents who don’t feel well have been advised to remain home until symptoms have subsided for at least 24 hours.

The Health Department has urged eligible residents to get vaccinated or make a booster shot appointment. Princeton also has a high vaccination rate. Around 82 percent of residents aged 12 and over are fully vaccinated, as are those aged 18 and above. The vaccination rate is 100 percent among residents aged 80 and over and those who are 65 and over.

As of Nov. 16, only 29 percent of the population has received the booster shot.

Meanwhile, Princeton University updated its COVID-19 risk status to "moderate to high" due to the post-Thanksgiving coronavirus surge among undergraduate students.

A total of 39 positive cases were reported from Nov. 20 to 26, according to the University's COVID-19 dashboard. The University will now increase coronavirus testing frequency and has doubled down on masking mandates on campus. They have also introduced a cap on all non-academic student gatherings. Read More Here: Princeton U. Tightens COVID Restrictions Amid Thanksgiving Surge

Statewide the transmission rate was 1.18, and the positivity rate was 9.23, although Gov. Phil Murphy said that number was likely fueled by people getting tested on Thanksgiving. Most people get tested on a holiday because they are more than likely positive, he said.

The new cases and hospitalizations statewide are being spurred by the Delta variant, but the new variant appears to be on its way to the United States and to New Jersey.

The Omicron variant was first identified in South Africa last week, and Murphy on Monday expressed concerns about its inevitable arrival in New Jersey. The Omicron variant has already resulted in a new travel ban that took effect Monday. Read More Here: COVID Hospitalizations Spike As NJ Braces For Omicron Variant

To find a COVID-19 vaccine appointment, visit New Jersey’s scheduling system or call (855) 568-0545.

Mercer County is also hosting a number of COVID-19 vaccine clinics through the month of December. To find details click here.

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