What are Connecticut's COVID-19 infection rates?
Connecticut's COVID-19 positivity rate on Friday was 12.32%. State officials report 335 people hospitalized, which is a decrease of one person over the last seven days.
The state Department of Public Health (DPH) says COVID-19 therapeutics are available for Connecticut residents. A site locator for COVID-19 treatments is hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Infusion Center Association. The DPH says patients should coordinate with their doctor before contacting a treatment location.
Should you wear a mask?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now says local masking ordinances should be based on hospitalizations, hospital capacity and cases. Based on those numbers, counties will be sorted into three risk categories: low, medium and high. According to the CDC, only people in "high" risk counties should wear masks, but the agency notes exceptions for certain at-risk populations.
Most recent data from the CDC show Fairfield, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, and New London counties listed as "medium" risk.
Hartford, Tolland, and Windham counties are at "low" risk.
Despite the updated federal guidance, the Connecticut Department of Public Health noted in a recent statement, "it’s important to note that residents who are more comfortable wearing a mask should continue to do so if they wish. People with symptoms, a positive test or exposure to someone with COVID-19 also should wear a mask."
How many people in Connecticut are vaccinated?
The CDC reports that 95% of the state's total population has received at least one vaccine dose, 80.6% are fully vaccinated and 53.4% have a booster shot. As of Aug. 10, CDC data show that a total of 9,623,325 COVID-19 vaccine doses have been distributed to Connecticut and 7,995,506 doses have been administered. Vaccine data are updated weekly.
Right now, COVID-19 vaccines are available for people 6 months and older. Booster shots for those 5 and older are also available. The CDC says people over the age of 50 and certain younger immunocompromised people may now get an additional booster shot to increase their protection. More information about where to get a vaccine is at VaccineFinder.org or at the CT Vaccine Portal. You may also dial 211.
