134 New Cases Reported
Officials Urge Citizens to Get Tested and Not Let Their Guard Down
Charleston, WV –Today, Kanawha County reported 134 new COVID-19 cases. While between 20 and 25 of the cases are because of lab results that were entered late, this is the largest one-day increase in cases since the pandemic began. Kanawha County is again experiencing a surge in the COVID-19 crisis and action must be taken.
Dr. Sherri Young, Chief Health Officer stated, “Increases in cases are typical after holidays, but this one is particularly alarming, especially because we haven’t reached Thanksgiving yet. Stay safe and take precautions to avoid spreading the disease. Avoid crowds, stay home when you can, especially if you’re feeling sick. Wear a face covering in public and frequently wash your hands. I also encourage you to take advantage of our testing events this week.”
“No matter what the official County Alert Map says, the reality on the ground tells me that Kanawha County is Red. When you see this large of an increase in cases, this proves without question that community spread is rampant. I continue to strongly recommend essential activity only,” stated Commission President Kent Carper.
Commissioner Ben Salango commented, “These numbers are alarming. The surge we are experiencing will only get worse as we approach Thanksgiving and more people travel and gather. We continue to recommend that you get tested this week prior to the Holiday and limit your Holiday gatherings to small events.”
“The alarming increase in cases that we are seeing across our City, County and State show the need for increased awareness and personal responsibility surrounding this virus,” said Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. “While I know we are all suffering from COVID fatigue and are longing for normalcy surrounding the upcoming holidays, we cannot let our guard down. Now more than ever, we need to be hyper vigilant and make sacrifices that will allow us to spend many more holidays with our loved ones. I urge everyone to follow all guidelines set forth from the health department, State of West Virginia and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when making holiday plans.”
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