(La Porte County, IN) - Local hospitals have seen an increase in admissions of COVID-19 patients, with the virus surging across the state and nationwide.  According to the Indiana State Department of Health online dashboard, La Porte County experienced 55 new hospitalizations from September 19th through October 18th.  This compares to 13 new hospitalizations during the prior 31 day period of August 19th through September 18th.

La Porte County Commissioner, Dr. Vidya Kora, said La Porte Hospital and Franciscan Health in Michigan City each have close to two dozen patients with the virus admitted at this time. 

COVID-19 Deaths in La Porte County are also on the rise.  From September 19th through October 18th, La Porte County suffered 21 deaths from Coronavirus, versus 7 deaths in the previous 31 day period, from August 19th through September 18th.

During last night’s La Porte County Commissioners meeting, Kora said he admitted a patient Tuesday night who waited nearly 16 hours in the emergency room until a bed became available.  Kora, who has a medical practice in Michigan City, appealed for people to wear masks, practice social distancing and take other safety precautions to try and flatten the curve once again.