Increase in COVID cases prompts public to look for ways to boost immune system

JACKSON, TN (WNBJ) - With the Omicron COVID-19 variant spreading, many in the hub city may be looking into getting vaccinated or a booster shot to protect themselves. Some also might be looking for ways to boost their immune system as well.

“So far, today we are already up 224 cases from last Wednesday,” said Kim Tedford, the Regional Director at the Jackson Madison County Regional Health Dept.

Kim Tedford from the Jackson Madison County Health Department gave us an update on the increase in COVID cases.

“We expected this uptick in cases, especially with Omicron being prevalent in the U.S. now. We know it is in Tennessee. We know it is in Memphis, Shelby County. There has been no confirmed Omicron here in Madison County.” said Kim Tedford, the Regional Director at the Jackson Madison County Regional Health Dept.

With COVID cases increasing, the health department encourages everyone to get vaccinated and get boosted.

“If you look at the data, it clearly shows you that vaccinations are the way to go. Get vaccinated. It’s going to protect you from serious illness, critical illness, possibly being in the intensive care, possibly being on a ventilator, and dying. So, our message is the same as it has been since the vaccines came out. Get vaccinated and get your booster,” said Kim Tedford, the Regional Director at the Jackson Madison County Regional Health Dept.

People in hub city can also look into natural ingredients to boost their immune system to fight off COVID or other seasonal illnesses as well.

Maple Leaf Natural Health Store has seen an increase in sales due to the COVID pandemic.

“My sales have actually increased since covid. I know a lot of the natural product stores got a huge surge. People trying to prevent, trying to boost their immune system and take care of themselves better,” said Stephanie Kenyon, the owner of Maple Leaf Natural Health Store.

The owner at Maple Leaf has been in the natural healthcare field for over 20 years and enjoys sharing her knowledge with others so they can improve their health.

“Your foundation is your diet, always. So, eating better, staying away from processed foods, cutting back on sugar. Sugar suppresses the immune system horribly. Of course, this time of year people are eating a lot of sugar so be careful. You know use more natural sweeteners, sweeteners from whole foods. So that’s what I try to educate people on the foundation,” said Stephanie Kenyon, the owner of Maple Leaf Natural Health Store.

Kenyon says natural products and herbs not only help to boost your immune system they can also be used to help with other conditions like arthritis too.