December 23rd, 2020 by WCBC Radio

The Allegany County Health Department reports that Allegany County’s cumulative COVID-19 case count is now at 5,172, with 147 deaths.  The current case rate in Allegany County is 78.31 cases per 100,000 population, while Maryland’s state average is currently 37.89 cases per 100,000 population.  Allegany’s positivity rate is now at 12.47%, while the statewide average is 7.36%. 

 

Health Officials continue to urge the community to stay at home as much as possible and avoid gatherings of any size with others outside of your household. 

 

“Typically, the holidays are a time to gather with the ones you love, but this year is very different because of COVID-19,” said Brenda Caldwell, Public Information Officer for the Allegany County Health Department.  “This year show your family and friends how much you love them by staying home and not risking their health this holiday season.  Connect through social media, by phone, or video chat platforms like Zoom or Google Meet.  It may not be ideal and it may not be what we are all used to doing, but protecting the health of our loved ones this holiday season will help make it possible to enjoy more holidays together in the future.” 

 

As always, wear a mask when around others who do not live with you, practice social distancing, and wash your hands frequently.  Keep hand sanitizer handy and carry disinfecting wipes with you to clean high-touch surfaces.

 

Please note that there will be NO fairgrounds drive-thru testing and no ACHD media updates on Friday, December 25 or Friday, January 1 in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.  Testing is available next week on Monday, December 28 from 2 to 7 p.m. and on Wednesday, December 30 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.