May 27, 2020

 Oregon Health Authority reported that during the week of Monday, May 18, through Sunday, May 24, there were a total of 289 new cases of COVID-19 discovered through testing in the state. This reflects a 26% decrease from the previous week which totaled 392 new cases. Testing increased by 5% during the week ending Friday, May 22 compared to the preceding week, while the percentage of positive tests fell from 2.6% to 1.7%. Additional data can be found on the Oregon Health Authority website at https://www.oregon.gov/…/COVID-19-Weekly-Report-2020-05-27-….

Although there is currently no vaccine to prevent COVID-19, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to the virus. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The droplets can land in the mouth or nose of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. The virus can also be spread by those infected but not showing symptoms. Protective measures individuals can take to avoid getting sick include washing your hands often; avoid close contact with others; cover your nose and mouth with a cloth face covering if physical distancing cannot be maintained; cover coughs and sneezes; clean and disinfect surfaces frequently; and monitor your health. Additional information can be found on the Center for Disease Control website at https://www.cdc.gov/…/…/prevent-getting-sick/prevention.html.

As the state continues to gradually reopen, protecting yourself and keeping your family safe remains of utmost importance. If you are a member of the vulnerable population, it will be up to each individual to evaluate their personal risk factors and risk tolerance. Those who are older, or have underlying health conditions should consider continuing to stay home.

Union County remains at six confirmed cases of COVID-19, of which five meet the Oregon Health Authority definition of recovered. Wallowa County has two confirmed cases, of which one has been classified as recovered. Oregon Health Authority is reporting a total of 4,038 confirmed and presumptive cases, and 148 deaths statewide.