CDC updates guidance for facial coverings

July 27, 2021–9:22 p.m.

STAFF REPORTS

In response to the rising number of COVID-19 cases, primarily due to the more contagious Delta variant, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has updated its guidance regarding facial coverings.

The CDC is now recommending that fully vaccinated people wear masks in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission.

In addition, fully vaccinated people might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they are immunocompromised, at increased risk for severe disease from COVID-19, or if they have someone in their household who is immunocompromised, at increased risk of severe disease or not fully vaccinated.

They also added a recommendation for fully vaccinated people who have a known exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 to be tested 3-5 days after exposure and to wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days or until they receive a negative test result.

The CDC also recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status

Floyd County reported 122 new COVID-19 cases last week, according to the latest county indicator report from the Georgia Department of Public Health.

That is up from 49 positive tests the week before and 7 reported during the week of July 3.

There have been no additional deaths reported since the two we had early last week.

Bartow County reported 109 new cases last week, up from 65 the week before.

Gordon County rose from 29 to 43 confirmed cases over the week.

Polk was up from 8 to 20, and Chattooga County saw an increase from 14 to 26.

Local Weather