Meck County health director: A fifth of COVID-19 cases are in people under 18

CHARLOTTE — Mecklenburg County health leaders held a news conference Monday to provide an update on the state of the West Nile virus, monkeypox and COVID-19 in the county.

Officials said last week, they found two people with West Nile virus. Since then, they said they’ve found several non-active cases in blood donations.

PREVIOUS: Mecklenburg County alerts residents about increase in West Nile virus activity in state

As for monkeypox, Health Director Dr. Raynard Washington said cases are starting to level off. Mecklenburg County has seen 201 cases since the start of the outbreak. He said now, the county is offering the monkeypox vaccine on a walk-in basis.

On the topic of vaccines, Washington also encouraged people to get the updated COVID-19 booster as we head into flu season.

“Again, I know it’s a surprise, seems like a constant vaccination campaign, but certainly it’s important for us to have as many people taking advantage of the vaccines in our community that are available because they certainly work. They’re effective,” he said.

Dr. Washington said about 20% of COVID-19 cases are in people under the age of 18. He said he expects case rates to rise as kids return to school.

>> In the video at the top of the page, Reporter Almiya White speaks with a mother about the newest information from Mecklenburg County Public Health.

(WATCH BELOW: People likely to need annual COVID-19 vaccine boosters)

People likely to need annual COVID-19 vaccine boosters People who are vulnerable to severe outcomes of the disease will likely need more frequent vaccinations, according to Dr. Anthony Fauci. (NCD)