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Masking recommended as Lee County reaches high risk for COVID-19 spread

DIXON – The Lee County Health Department is recommending residents return to masking indoors and taking other precautions as the county has reached high risk for COVID-19 spread.

Lee County reported 82 cases during the last week and has a 7.19% positivity rate, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention COVID-19 data tracker.

Whiteside and Ogle counties remain at medium risk for COVID-19 spread.

A KN95 black mask and a blue surgical style mask. The Lee County Health Department is recommending masks be worn indoors to prevent close contact infections, citing a rise of COVID-19 cases.

A KN95 black mask and a blue surgical style mask. The Lee County Health Department is recommending masks be worn indoors to prevent close contact infections, citing a rise of COVID-19 cases. (Troy Taylor/Sauk Valley)

In response to the heightened coronavirus risk level, Lee County Health Administrator Cathy Ferguson-Allen issued a statement recommending that residents wear a mask while in public indoor settings regardless of vaccination status, avoid crowded indoor settings and stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccines and boosters.

“To protect yourself, your family, and community, take the recommended actions to prevent COVID-19 based on community level. This phase of the pandemic calls for self-care,” Ferguson-Allen said.

The statement continued:

“Due to the High Community Level of COVID-19, all individuals regardless of vaccination status are strongly encouraged to wear masks when in public indoor settings. If you test positive for COVID-19 contact your health care provider right away to see if treatment options are right for you, even if you currently have mild symptoms. Let’s work together to have a safe, healthy, and fun summer.”

The Lee County Health Department is advising residents to take additional precautions as the county has reached high risk for COVID-19 spread.

The Lee County Health Department is advising residents to take additional precautions as the county has reached high risk for COVID-19 spread. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention/)

Those at risk for serious illness from COVID-19 should talk to their medial provider and have a plan for possible treatment options should they contract the virus, Ferguson-Allen advises.

CDC Community Level metrics are designed to help communities take action when COVID-19 spread is increasing and putting a strain on hospitals and clinics in their locality.

Free masks and test kits can be ordered from covid.gov. Other treatment, such as vaccine and booster shot locations, can also be found there.

The Lee County Health Department has free test kits available during community events, and they can also be picked up at the health department from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Those who are symptomatic can call 815-284-3371 ext. 2124 to make arrangements.

Go to lchd.com for more information and for updates on upcoming vaccine clinics.

Source: The Daily Chronicle

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