NUMBERS, SOME GOOD NEWS, FLU VACCINES, AND RELIABLE RESOURCES
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PEOPLE NOT NUMBERS:
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DECREASE IN CASES
Since August 9, we have had a noticeable decrease in COVID-19 cases in Haywood County. Our COVID Working Number (number of people in isolation + number of people in quarantine) has dropped from its peak of 377 to 251. The daily case count went from a high of 72 on August 3 to just 2 on August 19. What does this mean? The glass-half-full theorists might say we’re approaching herd immunity. Unfortunately, this is very unlikely, per the attached article. The glass-half-empty theorists might say that since Haywood County’s population is 62,000 and we’ve had 474 cases, there are about 61,000 people left to infect if we aren’t careful.
In either case, it seems that the recent spike in cases and deaths have caused all of us to take COVID-19 more seriously. Casual observation has shown an increase in proper masking and observance of social distancing. Whatever the cause, people are being more careful all over the county, and we thank you! Hang in there and keep doing your part to protect the health of the community.
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THE IMPORTANCE OF GETTING A FLU SHOT
Flu season is quickly approaching. Please get a flu shot as soon as they are available. While we don’t know what to expect yet in terms of severity of flu this year, even a mild flu season could challenge the capacity of hospitals already dealing with COVID-19 cases. It’s also thought that a bout with the flu can leave people more vulnerable to a nastier attack of COVID-19, and coming down with both viruses at once could have very serious consequences. While the flu shot isn’t a guarantee against illness, it helps to reduce the severity of illness. Right now we all need to take advantage of every tool available to us to protect our own health. By getting your shot, you also help to protect others. Read the attached article for a more in-depth discussion on the matter.
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FOOD RESOURCE GUIDE
The updated Haywood County Food Resource Guide is attached. Please distribute to anyone who might benefit from the information.
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AS ALWAYS
- WEAR a mask that covers your mouth and nose
- WAIT six feet apart--give others space!
- WASH your hands frequently with soap and water, and disinfect surfaces
- ISOLATE as soon as you feel sick, and get tested
- QUARANTINE if you are exposed or tested for COVID
- DO what you can to NOT be a close contact with anyone
Remember a close contact is considered to be within 6 feet for more than 15 minutes and not wearing a face covering. Your best bet is to protect yourself and others by following the guidance above.
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RESOURCES
Please be sure to check reliable sources for COVID-19 information…and check out Haywood County’s redesigned, user-friendly dashboard!
