SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (WNAX) – While new COVID-19 infection numbers in South Dakota are slowing down, hospitals are still close to capacity.

Dr Michael Elliott, Medical Director at Avera McKennan Hospital in Sioux Falls, says their numbers are very high.

Elliot says many of the COVID patients need long term care.

Elliot says they are taking pressure off the hospital by treating a number of COVID positive patients remotely.

Elliott says they are preparing for COVID vaccinations with cold storage and facilities for mass immunizations.