Credit: Tom Sofield/LevittownNow.com
For the second week, the number of COVID-19 cases have increased in Bucks County.
Bucks County had 1,664 new COVID-19 cases last week, a 23 percent jump over the previous week, according to Pennsylvania Department of Health data.
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The COVID-19 test positivity rate in Bucks County increased from 7.5 percent to 9.2 percent. A test positivity rate higher than 5 percent is considered concerning by health experts.
“Our cases are up a little as people are starting to go back to ‘normal,’” said Bucks County Health Department Director Dr. David Damsker. “However, vaccinations continue to greatly outpace cases, which is why it is much less concerning than it has been in the past. We’re on our way to beating this.”
Damsker urged Bucks Countians to wear masks and physical distance during the pandemic.
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Over the weekend, Bucks County surpassed 50,000 COVID-19 cases. However, that number is likely higher because health experts have stated some who have been ill were not tested, especially during infection peaks when testing was limited.
State health department data showed the deaths of 11 Bucks Countians with COVID-19 were reported last week.
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As of the end of last week, there were 68 COVID-19 patients in Bucks County’s hospitals. A total of 16 of them were in intensive care and 12 were on ventilators.
County officials said the hospitalization and deaths rates have remained steady after rapidly rising due to COVID-19 case jumps starting in late fall and continuing through winter.
The Pennsylvania Department of Health reported a statewide increase of COVID-19 cases last week.
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“Even as more and more Pennsylvanians are vaccinated, we must not forget to follow the mitigation measures still in place,” Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam said.
Since the pandemic started, Bucks County has had 50,345 COVID-19 cases and 1,177 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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