LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Lexington-Fayette County Health Department reported at least 894 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, but the final number will be higher as they continue to work through a backlog of cases during this "overwhelming surge" of new cases.
The 7-day rolling average is at least 700 new cases a day.
"It's reaching record highs throughout the state and throughout the country," LFCHD spokesman Kevin Hall said. "It is spreading and if it's not gotten to you yet, it likely will. But there are steps you can do to protect yourself. We don't need to throw up our hands and say there's nothing we can do about it."
Hall said the COVID-19 vaccine continues to be a great way to protect yourself. It is effective in keeping people from serious illness, including hospitalizations.
There are currently 126 Fayette County residents hospitalized—and this number does not include people in Lexington hospitals who are from other counties—with 84% of them unvaccinated, according to LFCHD,
More than half of the hospitalizations (67) are ages 18-64, with 94% unvaccinated.
Of the 24 Fayette County residents in ICUs, 92% are unvaccinated. There are 16 people who are currently on a ventilator, with 94% unvaccinated.
Hall highly encourages Fayette County residents to get the vaccine to protect themselves and keep from overwhelming our hospitals.
"We wish you would listen to us," Hall said. "We wish you would listen to the hospitals and try to take some of the burden off these hospitals and these healthcare providers."
LFCHD offers COVID-19 vaccines available by same-day appointment every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in their Public Health Clinic, located at 650 Newtown Pike.
Residents can call 859-288-2483 to schedule a COVID-19 vaccine.
LFCHD shares tips on how to help slow the spread of COVID-19:
- Wearing a mask/face covering in public areas.
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick, especially those with COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, muscle/body aches, loss of taste/smell, nausea, etc.);
- Covering coughs and sneezes;
- Avoiding touching your eyes, nose and mouth;
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
If symptomatic, Hall asks you to stay home.
"Too many people are continuing to go about their regular daily schedules even when they're symptomatic," Hall said. "You need to stay home."
