Boulder County Coronavirus Update: Rise Seen Across Age Groups

BOULDER COUNTY, CO — Boulder County has seen a new uptick in coronavirus cases across age groups — not just college students, public health officials announced Tuesday.

Jeff Zayach, Boulder County Public Health's executive director, said the new data could affect the county's variance.

“This is a heads-up to the community to remain diligent in following personal steps to protect themselves,” he said.

“While the number of new cases in each age group remain low, this increase is concerning. I want to stress how critically important it is for each and every individual in the community to help slow the spread of COVID-19 by socially distancing, wearing a face covering, limiting gatherings, and staying home when sick.”

As of Tuesday, 4,452 Boulder County residents have tested positive or were considered probable for the virus, the agency said.

“Although we have seen a downward trend in the number of new cases among 18-22-year-old residents over the last week, we are seeing increases in cases in all other age groups,” Zayach said.

“This downward trend in the 18-22-year-old age group is a good indication that the strategies we’ve implemented are starting to work.”

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Occupancy limits for businesses within Boulder County, including whether certain businesses may remain open, are based on the number of new cases, the positivity percentage and hospitalization rates.

Colorado public health officials have established a coronavirus dial for each county that shows different levels of 'openness.' Boulder County is at Safer at Home - Level 2, but is at risk of shifting to Level 3 - 'High Risk' if cases continue to rise.

Boulder County Public Health is set to submit a mitigation plan to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment on Wednesday. The plan will include any evidence of results from community mitigation efforts, such as the order that bans gatherings for Boulder residents between ages 18 and 22.

The two agencies will then meet Thursday to determine whether any additional orders or gathering restrictions will be necessary to stop the rise of COVID-19 cases in the community.

"If the mitigation strategies are effective, it is not anticipated that either part or all of Boulder County will be allowed or required to move to another level on the dial before Oct. 14," Boulder County Public Health said in a news release.