Fayette County Health Commissioner Kraig Humbaugh said the Lexington community is seeing coronavirus case levels rivaling the peak last December through February. Humbaugh said the seven-day rolling average stands at 225 cases. And the epidemiologist noted it doesn’t appear peaking will occur over the next month or so.
“We don’t see an end right now to the increases in cases, unfortunately, and that is obviously causing problems with our healthcare facilities,” said Humbaugh.
Humbaugh said that would only increase concerns about staffing and possibly bed space at area hospitals.
Humbaugh said the upcoming Labor Day weekend could mean the increased spread of coronavirus. But, Humbaugh added, in addition to vaccination, the standard advice of masking in public places and maintaining distance is important this holiday. While Lexington’s 70% vaccination level would typically be considered favorable, Humbaugh noted the remaining 30% shouldn’t be discounted. “Cause with the Delta variant, it’s more contagious and it’s going to take a higher level of immunity throughout the community for us to stop person-to-person transmission,” explained Humbaugh.
The health department commissioner said additional vaccinations remain a key to slowing the Delta variant. Humbaugh said free vaccination clinics will be held next Wednesday and Friday at the Newtown Pike location. Appointments are required.
