Bucks County had a slight increase in COVID-19 cases last week, but the numbers remained lower compared to earlier in the winter.
Last week, Bucks County reported 1,050 new COVID-19 infections. The number is a less than 4 percent increase over the previous week, but a 61 percent drop from the first full week of January when the county had 2,710 new cases, according to Pennsylvania Department of Health data.
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The county reported the test positivity rate declined last week from 8.2 percent to 7 percent. Health experts consider any rate higher than 5 percent concerning.
The deaths of 21 Bucks Countians with COVID-19 were reported last week. February had 75 COVID-19-related deaths reported.
As of the end of last week, Bucks County reported 75 COVID-19 patients in area hospitals, a decrease over the prior week. Of those in the hospital, 19 were in intensive care and 11 were on ventilators.
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While vaccine distribution has expanded and new cases are declining across the nation, the U.S. Centers Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has warned that there could be another surge in cases.
Since the pandemic started, Bucks County has reported 45,176 COVID-19 cases and 1,132 deaths.
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Ways residents can help reduce the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Wear a mask properly when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.
- Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.
- Clean surfaces frequently.
- Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.
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