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Chatham Health Covid Update - 12/17/21

Posted on: December 10, 2021 - 3:13pm

From the desk of Chatham Health:

Weekly COVID-19 Status Report. (Reporting period covers 11/28-12/11).

Overall, the District had 493 cases during this reporting period – an increase of 131 cases (or 36%) compared to the last reporting period​. Infection rates have surpassed those we experienced during the same period last year, a worrying trend with 1-week remaining before this year’s Christmas holiday. All Connecticut counties have been identified by CDC as having high levels of transmission (https://covid.cdc.gov/covid-data-tracker/#county-view|Connecticut|Risk|community_transmission_level) 

Hospitalizations have continued to increase across the state, with 710 patients currently hospitalized, though during the same week last year there were over 1,200 patients hospitalized across the State. We expect to continue to see increased transmission at least through the New Year. While DPH data show that approximately 70% of Chatham Health District residents are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, and many other residents have been sick with – and recovered from – natural infection, COVID-19 remains a dangerous illness. Many residents in Connecticut and from across the country that our residents may visit or play host to during the holidays remain susceptible to infection and illness. What residents choose do in the next week before the Christmas holiday may impact the health of those with whom they gather and visit. Residents are encouraged to take precautions during the holiday season, including:

  • Getting vaccinated if you have not already done so.
  • Getting a booster shot if you are eligible.
  • Getting tested for COVID-19 especially if you are sick, or as close as possible before gathering with family for the holidays even if you feel well.
    • At-home tests are a convenient way to accomplish this.
    • At-home tests can be purchased online or at many local pharmacies.
  • Wearing a mask in crowded indoor public settings* 

Chatham Health District is coordinating testing and vaccine clinics. To see upcoming scheduled vaccine and testing clinics in the district, visit our website: https://www.chathamhealth.org/services-2.

*Masks should completely cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of face without gaps. Masks should be made of multiple layers (2 is OK, 3 is better) of tightly woven fabric that does not let light pass through when held up to a light source.

Click here for this week's update.

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, get vaccinated, wear a mask when indoors in public places, maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet, avoid crowds, wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds, stay home if you’re sick and get tested. For the most current updates and recommendations, visit ct.gov/coronavirus. For general questions, call 2-1-1