So far, we have had 142 more cases1 in January than in December. While some of this increase is accounted for by the current outbreak in Windemere, without counting these, there were still 103 more cases in January. This tells us that COVID transmission on MV in January was high.
We therefore ask people to take extra precautions to avoid infection and transmission. Protect yourself, protect others!
WHEN COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION IS MEDIUM OR HIGH
If you want to avoid infection, and especially if you are at high risk of getting very sick, this is the time to weigh the importance of what you do and to avoid non-essential indoor activities where you could be exposed.
If you have household or social contact with someone at high risk for getting very sick, please self-test before visiting. COVID infections can be asymptomatic.
Rapid Antigen tests are available at Town Hall and many healthcare locations around the island. Please note: they are far less sensitive than PCR tests, so a negative test does not mean you are not infected.
If you have symptoms or know that you have been exposed to someone with COVID, please assume you may be infectious and take extra precautions around others.
Maintain ventilation improvements.
Wear a high-quality mask or respirator when indoors in public. N95 masks are available at all Town Halls.
And regardless of transmission rates in the community:
Avoid contact with people who have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
Follow recommendations for isolation if you have suspected or confirmed COVID-19.
Follow the recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19, using a combination of testing, vigilance for any symptoms, and increased precautions to avoid infecting others.
Stay up to date on vaccination, including recommended booster doses. Health Imperatives is vaccinating, so make an appointment or drop in.
To track COVID-19 Community Levels by County go to: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html
Due to lack of testing and lack of reporting, COVID case numbers no longer reflect how many people are currently ill. Changes in numbers over time are still likely indicate changes in disease prevalence on the island.
