At the current rate of 1.7 million shots per day, the U.S. will not reach 80% immunized until the beginning of November. If the rate went up to 3 million per day, we would get there in July. If these newer, more contagious variants take hold, then we would need more than 80% of people vaccinated to achieve the “herd immunity.” Another factor is how well we observe recommended precautions: masks and distancing. With no precautions, we may get to herd immunity faster, at the cost of another half-million lives. The New York Times has an interactive article where you can see how these different scenarios play out: https://tinyurl.com/covidherd.

Proper mask usage remains critical. Your mask should be at least two layers of fabric, fit tightly around the face and cover both nose and mouth. Here are the CDC recommendations for masks and usage: https://tinyurl.com/usemasks.

If you are eligible to receive the vaccine, GET IT. To see if you are currently eligible to receive the vaccine, and if so to make an appointment, go to https://tinyurl.com/VAX-Eligible or call 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).

In the meantime, stay vigilant: Wear your masks, socially distance from others, and wash your hands frequently.

(Graphics by Rich Shapiro)

We have had 229 deaths in the North Country from COVID-19, up 10 in the past week. In the last week, our North Country region seven-day average has gone down, from 3.98% positive to 3.72% positive. This is still higher than the overall state level of 3.52% positive. All the counties in our region are improving except Franklin County. Half of those cases are from exposure to infected people from outside the county.

Get tested periodically, to help protect our community. Infected people without symptoms are the major spreaders. Early detection reduces the spread. For an appointment, call Adirondack Health at 518-897-2462

The North Country region hospitalizations are steady, averaging 74 people hospitalized and eight in intensive care units due to COVID-19 during the past week. Regionally, we have 44% of our ICU beds available.

One out of every 18 people tested in Franklin and Essex counties was positive. Whether walking downtown or shopping at the grocery store, you will likely encounter someone who is positive but does not yet know it.

Wear your masks, socially distance from others, and wash your hands frequently.

(Graphics by Rich Shapiro)

Stay healthy.

(Graphics by Rich Shapiro)

(Graphics by Rich Shapiro)

(Table by Rich Shapiro)