The beginning of the next COVID-19 wave has begun. This wave includes Omicron (see below), a new variant identified in Connecticut. According to the CT Department of Public Health (DPH), Redding’s average 2-week daily case rate of COVID-19 cases have risen sharply from 2.4 to 21.2 cases per 100,000 in the past 4 weeks.
Redding, along with most towns in the State, is now in the red (learn more here).
Masking Requirement
Due to this quick rise in Redding COVID-19 cases, it is required that masks be worn in all indoor settings regardless of vaccination status, where social distancing cannot be maintained. This includes all municipal buildings, schools, school buses, childcare facilities, restaurants (when not eating or drinking), places of worship, work, healthcare, and congregate living settings. This does not apply to outdoor activity or private homes. We will continue to follow the guidance provided by DPH for sport activities. Masks can be removed when alone in a room such as a private office or when socially distanced from others. Face masks must be worn directly on the face completely covering the nose and mouth.
Omicron
Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. Both the Alpha and Delta variants have impacted Connecticut, and now the presence of the Omicron variant has been detected in the State. Regarding infection and spread CDC states the following:
• The Omicron variant will likely spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and how easily Omicron spreads compared to Delta remains unknown. CDC expects that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms.
• More data are needed to know if Omicron infections, and especially reinfections and breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated, cause more severe illness or death than infection with other variants.
• Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. Breakthrough infections in people who are fully vaccinated are likely to occur.
• Vaccines remain the best public health measure to protect people from COVID-19, slow transmission, and reduce the likelihood of new variants emerging. Preliminary data suggest that booster vaccine doses appear to provide good protection against this new variant; we strongly encourage everyone to pursue a booster dose of the vaccine (and for all who remain unvaccinated, to reconsider this decision in order to protect from severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19).
• Masks offer protection against all variants and should be worn in all indoor settings regardless of vaccination status.
• Despite the increased attention of Omicron, Delta continues to be the main variant circulating the country.
For those who test positive we need your cooperation when receiving a call from our contact tracer. When COVID positive around friends and family, they too could get sick and unknowingly spread it to others. We’re looking to break the chain of transmission. The interview is brief, and honest candid answers help the tracing be effective.
Where to Get Vaccinated
Tuesday, December 14 – Moderna Booster Clinic – Walk-ins welcome, or call 203-794-8530 – Bethel Municipal Center – General Purpose Room 9-1pm and 4-7pm located at 1 School St. Bethel 06801
Sunday, December 19 & Tuesday, December 28 – COVID Vax Van Clinic – 1-5pm – Redding Community Center for ages 12+. All vaccines available. No appointment needed.
Or click here.