New COVID-19 cases, but rate slowing

(Editor’s note: As of Tuesday morning, the Virginia Department of Public Health reported 575 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Middlesex County. There were 25 Middlesex patient COVID-19-related hospitalizations and 20 deaths involving Middlesex residents. The Virginia Department of Public Health cautions that because of limited testing, the actual number of cases in Middlesex County is likely much higher than reported.)

COVID-19 case numbers across the United States have improved; the current case rate in the US is about 22,000/day seven-day rolling average. Almost every state is stable or improving.

Virginia continues to improve as well, our new case rate is less than 400/day seven-day average.

The Three Rivers Health District, which includes Middlesex County, is stable at very low new case rates; our new case rate is averaging less than 10 cases/day.

Last week, 74 cases were reported late by a multi-site practitioner, dating from early April, for Three Rivers. Most of the cases reported on Monday, May 24, are historic, not new.

Across Virginia, about 54% of the population has received at least one dose of the vaccine. In Three Rivers, about 57% of our population over age 18 has received at least one dose. More than 80% of our Three Rivers residents aged 65 and older have received at least one dose.

Vaccination update

Everyone age 12 and older is now eligible for vaccination in Virginia. The Pfizer vaccine was recently authorized for use in adolescents age 12-15. Twelve to 17 year olds must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and provide proof of age such as a driver’s license or birth certificate if seeking vaccination outside the school setting. Pfizer vaccine is available at Walmart, Walgreens, and Rite Aid pharmacies, and through local Three Rivers Health District health departments. Please visit vaccinate.virginia.gov or call 1-877-VAX-IN-VA to find vaccination opportunities.

Virginia transitioned to phase two on April 18. For details of vaccination phases, please visit this website: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/covid-19-vaccine/#phase1b.