Gary L Herman
Alexander County has a cumulative total of 4,014 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with 95 cases in the last 14 days and 51 cases in the last seven (7) days. As of March 16, the health department has reported 84 deaths associated with the virus with no additional deaths since March 1. Currently, 10 people are hospitalized with COVID-19.
According to the latest NCDHHS data as of March 4, Alexander County is an “orange” county for substantial community spread in the state’s County Alert System. Across the state, there are now six (6) red counties, 34 orange counties, and 60 yellow counties.
As of March 9, Alexander County’s COVID-19 positive test rate is 5.1 percent while the state’s rate is 6.7 percent.
The health department has administered 8,134 total vaccinations, and continues to vaccinate those in groups 1, 2, 3, with a primary focus on group 3 (frontline essential workers such as teachers, child care, manufacturing, public safety, government, food/agriculture, etc.).
Beginning March 17, people in Group 4 who have a medical condition that puts them at higher risk and people who live in additional congregate settings will be eligible for vaccination. The rest of Group 4, which includes other essential workers, will become eligible April 7.
If you are eligible for a vaccination, call the vaccine hotline at 828-352-7724 or visit www.alexandercountync.gov/covid to submit your contact information so an appointment can be scheduled.
In addition, Peoples Drug Store is hosting a mass vaccination clinic with more than 1,000 first doses on Saturday, March 20 at East Taylorsville Baptist Church. If you are eligible, call (828) 632-2271 to schedule your appointment.
Alexander County Government continues to urge citizens to practice the 3 Ws: wear a mask, wait at least six feet apart, and wash your hands often.
Learn more about your vaccine group, vaccination distribution plans, vaccination locations, and more at yourspotyourshot.nc.gov.