On August 4, we surpassed 100 new cases of COVID-19 for the first time since May 23. We are clearly and rapidly moving in the wrong direction.
I cannot underscore enough the importance of getting vaccinated as quickly as possible. This pandemic is not over and, without question, vaccination is the most effective tool we have in controlling its spread and reducing its harm – on our bodies, our mental health and our economy. Don’t just take my word for it. If you are eligible and unvaccinated, talk to your most trusted healthcare provider now. Do that today.
Most of us are aware that even fully vaccinated people are still at risk of contracting the virus now that the Delta variant has arrived in our community. Indeed, based on the information we have, about one-third of our positive patients are fully vaccinated. The odds of serious illness or death for these patients is vastly lower than their unvaccinated counterparts. However, it might still be unpleasant and they could inadvertently put more vulnerable people at risk.
I urge everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask in indoor public settings. Additionally, I ask that everyone remember other precautions that work, particularly when it comes to gatherings with family and friends. Consider holding these gatherings outside as much as possible. Wear masks and maintain social distance as much as possible.
We want to keep our businesses open. We want to fully reopen our schools. We want to keep socializing, celebrating and living our lives as we did before March of 2020. Let’s do everything we can now to keep this current surge under control, and send our case numbers back down.
Dr. Michael Mendoza
Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health
