Lexington continues to see an increase in coronavirus cases within its Hispanic-Latino community. Fayette County Health Department Spokesman Kevin Hall says an already high percentage of 19% last week rose to 24% this week. “The barriers are real. Not only are there language barriers, but there’s a general sense of mistrust of government agencies within this community. They have a spotlight and in many cases a negative spotlight put on them and we are working to try to overcome that to let them know that hey we are here to help you,” said Hall.
There are few cases currently being reported at the Federal Medical Center which experienced a sizeable outbreak a few weeks ago.
Hall said there continues to be no evident connection between increases of cases and recent protests downtown. He noted that doesn’t mean some of the cases won’t come from those gatherings. Hall added protesters should try to maintain distance and stay around people they know, so if they do test positive, that information can be passed on to contact tracers.?
The number of COVID-19 cases overall in the Fayette County area has declined the last few days. Hall said daily counts running from 30 to 40 have fallen to 17 and 12 the last couple of days. But, the health department official said all it takes is one new case in one new place to see numbers jump up.
If you appreciate access to this important content during this global health emergency, please help us continue to provide public service journalism and information to Central and Eastern Kentucky communities. Please make your contribution to WEKU today.
