Alabama is currently experiencing an alarming increase in hospitalizations associated with COVID-19, with some hospitals suspending elective surgeries due to the sharp spike in cases. To address this concerning rise, the Alabama Medical Association will host a Facebook Live webcast on Thursday to discuss the dire situation facing the state’s hospitals.

Physicians who will participate in the discussion are State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris, Dr. Don Williamson of the Alabama Hospital Association, Dr. William Admire, chief medical officer for Mobile Infirmary and North Baldwin Infirmary, and Dr. Aruna Arora, president of the Medical Association.

The public is invited to watch and participate in the Facebook Live COVID-19 update. Viewers may submit questions as they watch the live discussion.

The Alabama Medical Association holds a weekly Facebook Live COVID-19 update, which takes place every Thursday when Dr. Harris and other medical experts discuss the pandemic and how individuals can protect themselves

“The number of Alabamians in the hospital right now with COVID is the highest it has been since January. The trend is terrifying,” said Dr. Arora. “Nearly all of those in the hospital are unvaccinated. Anyone with questions about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccines should talk to a medical doctor and get the facts.”

Thursday’s live-streamed update can be viewed on the Alabama Medical Association Facebook page, beginning at 4:00 p.m.

Dylan Smith is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @DylanSmithAL