Dear Friends,

We are beginning to see a consistent increase of positive COVID-19 cases and a concerning trend of hospitalization increases in Howard County. As of 9:00 a.m. this morning and according to the Maryland Department of Health, our positivity rate is at 2.95% and our cases per 100,000 of our population is at 9.30. Last week, these numbers were 2.78% and 8.90 respectively. In addition, we currently have 16 COVID-19 patients in our ICU and Acute Care units. 

I understand that many residents are feeling quarantine fatigue. However, we need all residents to remain vigilant. Face coverings, washing hands and physical distancing are our most powerful weapons to slow and stop the spread of COVID-19. 

Although we have administered a total of 184,486 tests and the percent of population tested is 33.3%, it’s imperative that residents continue getting tested if you have been around or are concerned about a possible COVID-19 exposure. Robust testing procedures help us better mitigate any further spread. For more information, please visit HChealth.org. 

We all have a responsibility to do all we can to reverse these concerning trends.

For more data and COVID-19 information, please click here.