Covid-19: Still Present, Take Caution

County Executive Alsobrooks Holds At Phase II And Warns Against Holiday Increase Of The Virus

By Kia Lisby

Angela Alsobrooks

It may seem to some that COVID-19 has taken a halftime break but it’s still prevalent with its momentum as high as if it were still the first quarter.

The pattern of COVID-19 shows that African Americans are at higher risk of contraction due to other health factors that may contribute to the already deadly virus.

“The COVID-19 trends we are seeing in our county and jurisdictions across the state are concerning and a stark reminder that this virus is still very much present in our community,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks.

With the number of COVID-19 cases spiking in Prince George’s County, Alsobrooks announced that the county will remain in Phase 2 of the reopening plan.

Data for last week shows the county’s positive rate increased, resulting in 852 new cases, which is the highest number of new cases in one week in the county since the beginning of August.

As of last week, the county’s average daily case rate is at 13.4 new cases per day per 100,000 residents. County leaders will continue monitoring and analyzing the data and trends, with an update on the county’s progress to be provided in two to three weeks.

Unfortunately, the holidays are closer than they appear.

The Prince George’s County Health Department has advised against the gathering of family and friends that are not in immediate households.

However, virtual holiday hosting and gathering are highly recommended. If in-person gatherings are held with individuals outside of one’s household, residents should have limited numbers of guests for social distancing and safety purposes.

Whether holidays are celebrated at your house or you travel every year to visit family and friends, the Health Department advises on the consideration of mode of transportation. Carry personal sanitizing kits with the necessary cleansing essentials and protective gear.

For holiday safety tips, visit health.mypgc.us/coronavirus.