August 6th, 2021 by WCBC Radio
Like other states, Maryland is seeing a marked increase in the number of new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations. Genetic sequencing of new cases of COVID-19 in Maryland show that nearly 100% involve the more highly contagious Delta variant, which also accounts for 93% of new cases nationwide. Almost all new COVID-19 infections, hospitalizations, and deaths are occurring in unvaccinated individuals. So-called “breakthrough” infections (cases of COVID infection in a vaccinated person) are extremely rare, but not unexpected – no vaccine is 100% effective. COVID statistics show that all three approved COVID-19 vaccinations are highly effective at preventing illness, hospitalization and death from known strains of COVID-19.
On Thursday, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan mandated that state employees working in health, juvenile services, public safety, and corrections must show proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or adhere to masking requirements and regular ongoing COVID-19 testing. This mandate will be effective September 1.
As of August 5, 41.0% of all Allegany County residents are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 compared to 59.4% of all Marylanders.
Allegany County COVID-19 Case Statistics as of August 5:
- New COVID Cases: 44 (cumulative total 7,142)
- Additional Deaths: 1 (cumulative total 214)
- Cases Per 100,000 Population: 8.93 (Maryland: 10.07)
- Positivity Rate: 4.34% (Maryland: 3.79%)
The Allegany County Health Department offers walk-in COVID vaccinations on Wednesdays on the ground floor of the Willowbrook Office Complex (12501 Willowbrook Road, Cumberland, MD). From 9 a.m. to noon both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccines are offered for those age 18 and older. Then, from 1 to 4 p.m. the Pfizer COVID vaccine is offered for those age 12 and older. Anyone under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian in order to be vaccinated.
