WCCHD Reporting Record High COVID-19 Activity

June 25, 2020 - Williamson County continues to experience a sharp rise in new COVID-19 cases in the month of June.

The affected age ranges have risen by 15% from May 22 to June 22 in the 18-40 years group, as this population has reported going back to work and being outside their homes more as infection sources. The largest drop in cases were reported in the 61-80 years group (an 8% decrease).

Additional data points:
• Confirmed cases have increased 51.1% in the past week. Total case counts are now on track to double again in 13 days.
• Hospitalized patients set a record high of 25 three days this week. This number is expected to continue to increase throughout the next week. Hospitalization is a lagging indicator, following 1-2 weeks after the peak in cases.
• Highest rate of new infections, a 7-day average (13.32%). This is a key indicator of increasing disease spread in the community.
• Highest number of active cases (831): This indicates the known number of infectious people in the County, which is rising.
• Active Cases now exceed Recovered Cases by almost 100 – 831 Active versus 737 Recovered.
• The percentage of viral tests positive has increased 22.1% over just a week ago. This indicates that the amount of disease is increasing, so a higher percentage of those tested are positive.

“Our community’s health takes everyone’s participation,” said WCCHD Executive Director Derrick Neal. “The best way to keep the balance of safety and the ability to be outside our homes will require everyone to follow the CDC guidelines that have been proven to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Wearing face coverings and social distancing have proven to be the most effective ways to reduce the spread of germs.”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends taking everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:
• Wear a cloth face covering
• Social distance six feet from others when possible.
• Stay home when you are sick, except to seek medical care.
• If you are confirmed or suspected to be COVID-19 positive, isolate for 14 days.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds and help young children to do the same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-base hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

For more information on coronavirus in Williamson County, testing information and dashboard with daily updates, visit www.wcchd.org/COVID-19.
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