Caution Urged as COVID-19 Cases Continue to Rise Nationally
FREDERICK, Md. – Thanks to Frederick County residents who are heeding public health advice to wear face coverings and maintain physical distance from others are successfully allowing Frederick County to lead the way regionally and nationally with lower COVID-19 coronavirus cases and improving health metrics. For the past two weeks, there have been no COVID-positive patients in intensive care in the county, and currently there are only two patients being treated for the virus at Frederick Health Hospital. These results prove that following the health directives can successfully fight the spread of the virus.
Resident should remain vigilant, because the virus remains highly contagious. Relaxing or letting down one’s guard could cause the virus to surge and spread again. All across the country, cases are increasing, including in nearby states. Concern for spread of the virus remains as more people travel. Frederick County residents are encouraged to continue to avoid large crowds or gatherings, work at home if possible, and practice good hygiene.
Nationally, more than 3 million people have tested positive for the virus, which currently has no vaccine. It is apparent that positive cases surging elsewhere in the country create higher risk for spread, with the potential for local impact. Medicine to help treat the infection is in short supply across the United States. Shortages of personal protective equipment for healthcare workers and others is recurring due to high demand, making it difficult for Frederick County to rebuild its inventory. Test results have also been delayed due to significant increases in testing across the nation.
“Together, we can be proud to have made great strides to reduce the spread of the virus in our community,” said Frederick County Executive Jan Gardner. “We can continue to control the spread and keep our families and community as safe as possible if everyone does their part. Wear masks, stay apart, and wash your hands.”
To date, 10.9% of Frederick County’s population has been tested for COVID. The seven-day average positivity rate for the county is 2.1%, half of the statewide rate for Maryland. Positivity rates and other data are updated daily at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/COVIDstats.
The Frederick County Division of Fire and Rescue Services has transported a total of two confirmed COVID-positive patients over the past two weeks. Tuesday saw the transport of only one person under investigation, the fewest since the county’s first confirmed case on March 16.
Currently five of the county’s nine nursing homes are eligible for limited outdoor visitations and small group gatherings. They include Citizens Care and Rehabilitation Center, Vindabona Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Buckingham’s Choice, Homewood, and St. Joseph’s Place.
“Thanks to all Frederick County residents who are doing their part to care for themselves and others,” Executive Gardner added. “Frederick County is a caring community. #LoveFrederick.”
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