Health officials in Boston are urging residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 as recent data from the city's wastewater reveals a concerning increase in cases. The average concentration of COVID-19 in wastewater south of Boston was reported to be 2,110 copies per milliliter, while north of Boston saw 2,084 copies in the most recent update.

While the current numbers are not as high as the peak seen earlier this year, there has been a noticeable spike since early November. The Department of Public Health reported 5,955 confirmed cases of COVID-19 last week, a significant rise compared to 2,121 new cases reported in a week at the beginning of November.

Medical professionals, including the President of the Massachusetts Medical Society, Barbara Spivak, expressed concern about the surge in cases. Spivak emphasized the importance of getting vaccinated against both COVID-19 and the flu, stating, "It is not too late in the season to get vaccinated against the flu and to get the most updated COVID-19 vaccines." She urged people to schedule appointments with their healthcare providers to receive the vaccines as soon as possible.

According to COVID Act Now, the Boston area currently faces a "medium" level of COVID-19 threat, with an increase in cases and hospital admissions. Local businesses and community hubs are recommending the use of masks, and Boston hospitals have renewed their mask policies until the end of 2023.

In terms of vaccination rates, USAFacts reports that 95% of Boston's population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. Of these, 84% are fully vaccinated as of May 2023, and 44% have received both the initial dosage and a booster shot.

Health authorities are stressing the importance of taking every available measure to protect vulnerable individuals from transmissible diseases. While these diseases may only cause mild symptoms for most healthy individuals, they can have severe consequences for those who are immunocompromised.

To assist residents in finding COVID-19 boosters or vaccinations, a location search tool has been made available.

Stay tuned to Boston.com for the latest updates on the situation and adhere to recommended safety measures to protect yourself and others.