The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Community Levels for COVID-19 in La Plata and Archuleta counties moved to Medium on Thursday. This increase is likely related to a rise in regional hospitalizations over the past week. From July 25 to today, 96 percent of COVID hospitalizations in Southwest Colorado have been among individuals who were not vaccinated.
Based on these levels of COVID-19 in both communities, San Juan Basin Public Health (SJBPH) recommends continued precautions to slow the spread of the virus, prevent severe illness and hospitalizations, and protect essential services. In both La Plata and Archuleta counties, those at high risk for severe illness should talk to their health care provider about taking additional precautions such as masking. Mask wearing is also encouraged on public transportation.
For both Community Levels Medium and High, individuals are encouraged to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines, including boosters, and test if experiencing symptoms.
There is free community PCR testing available at the La Plata County Fairgrounds from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday and Saturday. At-home tests are available free at the SJBPH offices in both Durango and Pagosa Springs, or ordered directly from the federal government(covid.gov/tests). More information about testing is available on SJBPH’s website.
Vaccines are the safest, most effective way to prevent severe illness, hospitalization, and death caused by COVID-19 and its variants. Find out about local COVID-19 vaccine providers on SJBPH’s website. More information about COVID-19 vaccines, as well as assistance scheduling an appointment, is available on the state’s website. The public can also call SJBPH (970-247-5702) or Colorado’s Vaccine Hotline (877-268-2926) to get help finding a vaccine.
KN95 masks are also available at SJBPH front desks in Durango and Pagosa Springs.
COVID-19 treatments are for people who currently have mild to moderate symptoms and are not in the hospital but who are at high risk of getting very sick. Seek treatment as soon as possible when you start to feel symptoms. Ask your health care provider or seek Telehealth for treatment. Learn more about how to access COVID-19 treatments via the State of Colorado or SJBPH.
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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