The state Department of Health reported a rise in total COVID-19-related hospitalizations in Alaska this week — up nearly 24% from two weeks ago.

As of Wednesday, there were 83 COVID-related hospitalizations statewide. That’s compared to the 67 total that were counted on July 13.

Since late April, COVID hospitalizations have been ticking upward, according to state data. Because of the availability of at-home COVID testing, officials say hospitalization and recent death data is the most effective indicator of the prevalence of the virus. There were no new deaths reported Wednesday.

There were also a total of 2,946 new COVID cases reported from July 20 through July 26.

Officials recommend all eligible Alaskans be up to date on their COVID vaccines to minimize the infection’s impact on communities.

Anyone over 6 months old is eligible for a vaccine, and the state recommends individuals receive either a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna shot. The Johnson and Johnson/Janssen vaccine is also approved for anyone 18 and older.

As of Wednesday, 64.8% of Alaskans 5 and older had completed their primary series, according to the DOH. Not even one-third — 29.7% — had received their first booster dose.

Booster shots are recommended, whether or not a person has already contracted the virus and despite elapsed time since the completion of the primary series. Everyone 5 and older is eligible for a booster dose.

Officials are recommending that Americans get Pfizer or Moderna boosters instead of J&J’s vaccine. The FDA said the J&J shot should only be given to adults who cannot receive a different vaccine or specifically request it.

For those 50 years and older who are up to date with their primary series and first booster, a second booster dose is recommended. In addition, certain moderately or severely immunocompromised individuals can also receive a second booster.

For more information on vaccine eligibility, visit https://dhss.alaska.gov/dph/epi/id/pages/covid-19/vaccineinfo.aspx.

A map of vaccine providers can be found on DHSS’ COVID-19 vaccine website at covidvax.alaska.gov.

Reach reporter Camille Botello at camille.botello@peninsulaclarion.com.