The Jefferson County Health Department reported three new COVID-19-related deaths this week, bringing the county’s total number of deaths related to the virus to 577 since the start of the pandemic.
The latest deaths were a man in his 90s, and two women in their 80s. The three deaths this week are the first reported COVID-19-related deaths since Sept. 21 when a man in his 80s, and a woman in her 90s were reported to have died.
As of Oct. 21, Jefferson County was in the yellow, or medium, level on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention three-color COVID-19 warning system. That is the 10th consecutive week the county has been in the yellow level.
Brianne Zwiener, Jefferson County Health Department public information officer, said she still recommends anyone who is considered high risk for serious illness from the virus wear a mask in public places. She also said people should wear masks in public if they frequently are around those who are high risk.
Health officials strongly encourage people to get vaccinated against COVID-19. Anyone 6 months and older is eligible for vaccines.
Zwiener said people may go to vaccines.gov for information about where vaccine appointments are available.
A new COVID-19 booster vaccine that targets the Omicron sub-variants is available at Mercy Jefferson in Crystal City, and people may sign up to receive a dose at mercy.net/movaccine.
However, people may not receive the new booster unless it’s been at least two months since their last COVID-19 vaccine or booster.
