Jefferson County Health Department (JCHD) has moved the county back into the highest alert status of red today. There are several data sources consulted when evaluating community transmission of COVID-19 per CDC and White House Pandemic Task Force guidelines. The main indicator used is the seven-day rolling average of cases per day/per 100,000 residents.
“Our rolling average hit 42.73 today, well over the 25-case threshold to move to red,” states Jefferson County Health Department Director, Kelley Vollmar. “In the last week, an additional 673 cases of COVID-19 have been added which is an 87% increase from the previous week.” Today JCHD reported 361 additional cases since Friday for a total of 6,689 county cases. Of that total, there are currently 1,232 active cases and 1,392 individuals actively quarantined as contacts to a positive case.
With the holiday season approaching, there is a higher risk for COVID-19 spread. “Our concern is case contacts or un-diagnosed positive COVID-19 individuals unintentionally spreading COVID-19 to their more vulnerable family members,” states Director Vollmar. “It is imperative that we take the appropriate prevention measures to reduce the spread as much as possible.”
Because it is currently flu season as well, it is more important than ever to take preventative measures to protect ourselves, our families, and our community. Jefferson County Health Department strongly encourages residents to practice diligent prevention measures as a matter of personal responsibility:
- Limit unnecessary travel and contact with others outside of the home
- Avoid crowds and minimize social gatherings
- Practice 6-foot physical distancing
- Wear a mask when in public as recommended by the CDC
- Practice proper hygiene (cough etiquette, hand washing) and disinfection protocols
- Stay home if you are sick
