COVID-19 case rate climbs, indoor masking advised

For the past seven days, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services reports 347 new individuals who’ve tested positive for COVID-19 in the Juneau community. This number does not include people who’ve tested positive through a rapid self-test. Hospital impacts are not as significant as they have been in earlier phases of the pandemic; however, the hospital is seeing an increase in patient visits and admissions. COVID-19 data is available at DHSS dashboards.

While case activity is elevated, CBJ recommends:

• Mask in indoor public places, especially in situations where close contact cannot be avoided
• Be aware of symptoms and follow CDC quarantine and isolation guidance if you become symptomatic or are identified as a close contact.
• Test for COVID-19 if you have symptoms, 5 days after a close contact, and before gathering with those at increased risk.
• If you test positive, consult with your physician or, lacking a physician, the hospital at 907-796-8900 to determine if therapeutic medications may be a good choice for you.

If you want to get vaccinated or if you are due for a vaccine booster, please visit https://juneau.org/vaccine or contact your medical provider. Vaccine boosters for children age 5-11 are not yet available, but likely will be soon due to recent FDA authorization. Final approval is dependent on CDC review and State medical directive, both of which are expected later this week.

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For more information, contact Deputy City Manager Robert Barr at 907-586-5240 or [email protected]