CDC: Oneida County at ‘substantial’ risk for COVID transmission

UTICA, N.Y. >> With a positivity rate averaging 3.2% on a 7-day average, a nearly 2% increase in the past 8 days, Oneida County has now been identified as a community with a substantial risk level of COVID-19 transmission, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Oneida County executive’s office reported Thursday.

COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and deaths are once again increasing across the country fueled by the Delta variant. The highest spread of cases and severe outcomes are happening in places with low vaccination rates. The Delta variant has been identified in New York State and has been found to be much more contagious than past versions of the virus, officials say. Although the positivity rate is still low, vaccinated people can get breakthrough infections of the Delta variant and may be contagious.

CDC recommends that communities with substantial risk implement additional mitigation strategies. This includes recommending that everyone, including fully vaccinated individuals, wear masks indoors while in public. Additionally, if exposed to a Covidpositive person, the CDC advises

that fully vaccinated people get tested 3-5 days after exposure, even without symptoms. Vaccinated people who have been exposed should also wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result. Oneida County is not instituting any community-wide mandates related to the CDC recommendations at this time. They remain federal recommendations.

The county advises all unvaccinated people to get vaccinated in order to protect themselves and their families and loved ones. Vaccines are readily available throughout Oneida County. Until a person is fully vaccinated, they should continue to wear a mask and keep 6 ft. distance when in public. Residents can schedule an appointment via the county website for their shot.

Officials say that vaccination is the answer to stopping the spread of this virus. “Our community has worked hard over the last 17 months to fight this virus. We have all made sacrifices to help protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our neighbors. We now have the key to ending this once and for all, the vaccine. We need those who are unvaccinated and have been

“Vaccines have been vital in protecting people from illness and death for many years. This is no different. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated immediately,”

— Daniel Gilmore, Director of Health for Oneida County Health Department

hesitant, to get their vaccine immediately,” stated Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente. “If you’re not already vaccinated, make an appointment today.” 62.1% of Oneida County residents who are over the age of 12 have received their first dose of a vaccine, according to a county report.

“Vaccines have been vital in protecting people from illness and death for many years. This is no different. The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and everyone who is eligible should get vaccinated immediately,” stated Daniel Gilmore, Director of Health for Oneida County Health Department.