SW Valley Times

County of Cochise issued the following announcement on Aug. 5. 

Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) updated the statewide COVID-19 dashboard to show Cochise County now at a substantial level of community transmission. With COVID-19 cases increasing within the community, Cochise Health & Social Services (CHSS) encourage County residents to remain vigilant and get vaccinated as soon as possible. 

As of August 5, 2021, County data on COVID-19 cases and transmission details include the following:

• Cochise County has had a total of 12,451 COVID-19 cases.
• A total of 758 hospitalizations and 298 deaths due to COVID-19.
• A total of 42 breakthrough cases have been identified.
• Cochise County is identified to be at a substantial community transmission level of COVID-19 spreading. 

 Due to the rising cases and transmission levels throughout the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released new guidance for vaccinated individuals. The guidance shared on July 27, 2021, recommends the following:

• Recommendation for fully vaccinated people to wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial or high transmission.
• Fully vaccinated people might choose to wear a mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they are immunocompromised or 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.
• Fully vaccinated people who have come into close contact with 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.
• CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to schools, regardless of vaccination status.

Cochise Health & Social Services’ recommendation to our community is to continue to be vigilant and get vaccinated as soon as possible. Additionally, everyone should continue to practice the same mitigation measures that have been effective since the beginning, which include mask-wearing, washing hands, and social distancing.

COVID-19 vaccines are widely available within Cochise County. Nearly all major pharmacies and local clinics in Cochise County offer the vaccine at no charge and with no prior appointment necessary. Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Inc. offers walk-in hours, Monday - Saturday at many of their locations. They also offer home visits and transportation resources for individuals who are unable to get to a nearby clinic. Please note that it’s always a good idea to check ahead for availability even when no appointment is necessary.

Additionally, many primary care providers in Cochise County also offer the vaccine. Community members can ask their doctors about their availability if they are unsure. 

Original source can be found here.