Recent COVID-19 incidence and positivity rates indicate that transmission is rising in La Plata and Archuleta counties, causing San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) to urge caution over the Memorial Day weekend when gathering with friends and family. Consider outdoor gatherings where possible. As of May 25, La Plata County’s one week incidence rate was 125.8 cases per 100,000 people and positivity rate was at 8%. Archuleta’s one week incidence rate was 104.7 and positivity rate was 15%.
SJBPH encourages residents, especially those who are at high risk for severe illness, to act now to protect themselves and their families. Residents should continue prevention efforts such as staying home if you have symptoms, frequent hand-washing, and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. High risk and vulnerable individuals should consider resuming masking in public indoor spaces.
Vaccines are the safest, most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death caused by COVID-19 and its variants. Local providers administering COVID-19 vaccines and boosters are available on SJBPH’s website at https://sjbpublichealth.org/covid-19-vaccine/. More information about COVID-19 vaccines, as well as assistance scheduling an appointment, is available at covid19.colorado.gov/vaccine. The public can also call SJBPH (970-247-5702) or Colorado’s Vaccine Hotline (1-877-268-2926) to get help finding a vaccine.
Testing is available for free at community testing sites in La Plata and Archuleta counties, and at-home tests are available free at the SJBPH offices in both Durango and Pagosa Springs, or ordered directly from the federal government at www.covid.gov/tests. More information about testing is available athttps://sjbpublichealth.org/testing.
KN95 are also currently available at SJBPH front desks in Durango and Pagosa Springs. These are available on a first come, first served basis until they run out.
COVID-19 treatments are for people who currently have mild to moderate symptoms and are not in the hospital for COVID-19, but who are at high risk of getting very sick. You should get treatment as soon as possible when you start to feel symptoms. If you are at high risk and have COVID-19, ask your health care provider about treatment as soon as you can. Learn more about where to find treatment atcovid19.colorado.gov/treatments.
People who are moderately to severely immunocompromised or who can’t get vaccinated against COVID-19 may get a monoclonal antibody treatment called Evusheld. It can help keep you from getting sick with COVID-19. It isn’t for people who already have the virus or have recently been exposed.
San Juan Basin Public Health is a local public health agency, governed by a seven-member local Board of Health, serving all residents of La Plata and Archuleta counties. For over 70 years, San Juan Basin Public Health has improved the health and environment of the Southwest Colorado community.
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