Garrett County COVID-19 Cases Increase
By Garrett County Joint Information Center Team
Garrett County has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in the past week. A total of 25 new cases have been reported since March 8th, bringing the new total to 1,873. The case rate for the county is now 12.31 per 100,000 residents, and the positivity rate is 6.3%.
“We are seeing a resurgence of the virus in Garrett County,” said Garrett County Health Officer Bob Stephens. “Our local and state contact tracing efforts have not identified a specific cluster. This is not the time to become complacent. If we can get ahead of this current spike through taking the proper precautions it will save lives. We are making good progress in our vaccination efforts, but we must be responsible as individuals and as a community for a little while longer if we want to keep schools and businesses open.”
Despite the recent easing of certain restrictions in Maryland, the statewide masking order remains in effect. Masks or face coverings are required to be worn in any public indoor facility and also in all public outdoor areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing. At this time masks are still required even if you have been vaccinated. Currently 22.3% of Garrett County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
With the case count increasing in Garrett County, it is important to get tested if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone who tests positive. If you have COVID-19 like symptoms, schedule a testing appointment at the Health Department by calling 301-334-7697. Testing is also available (with or without symptoms) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park. Pre-registration is recommended. Visit garretthealth.org for more information.
If you are interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, visit garretthealth.org to fill out the Garrett County COVID-19 Vaccination Interest Form. Although Garrett County is currently only vaccinating residents in Phase 1, the form may be filled out by any Garrett County resident, regardless of their current qualification status. For those unable to access the interest form, call 301-334-7698 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for assistance.
NOTE: Completing the interest form does NOT create an appointment to be vaccinated. It may take several weeks, or longer, until participants are contacted to schedule an appointment because of limited vaccine supply.
For all other COVID-19 related questions, or to report a COVID-19 compliance issue, call the local COVID-19 Hotline number at 301-334-7698.
