Highest 7-Day Average Of Coronavirus Cases Reported In HoCo

HOWARD COUNTY, MD — Howard County has reported the highest seven-day average of 15.8 cases per 100,000 people, a considerable increase from 9.6 cases per 100,000 Nov. 3. Gov. Larry Hogan announced Tuesday night that effective Wednesday at 5 p.m., indoor bars and restaurant capacity will be reduced from 75 percent to 50 percent. Customers must be seated to be served.

The governor also expanded his travel advisory to avoid all out-of-state travel that is non-essential, especially to states with a positivity rate of more than 10 percent. All employers are "strongly encouraged" to have employees telework that are non-essential, noted Howard County Executive Calvin Ball. The Maryland Health Department issued guidance to avoid indoor gatherings of 25 people or more.

“Our numbers make it very clear – we’re at a pivotal point in this pandemic and the personal actions taken over the next few months will be critical in slowing the rapid spread we’re currently seeing,” said Ball. “Wearing a mask and maintaining physical distance are the best ways to prevent the spread of this virus, and we must practice these strategies in private and in public – that includes gatherings with family and friends. It’s natural to let your guard down among close family and friends, but that is where we’ve seen continued spread happen. We recognize that there is COVID-19 fatigue, but we cannot grow weary. If you leave your house, you should be wearing a mask. If you are around anyone outside your household, you should be wearing a mask, it’s that simple. Let's protect one another.”

The previous highest average of 12.7 cases per 100k was reported Aug. 1. The seven-day average positivity rate has also increased from 2.88 percent to 4.24 percent the past week. Howard County currently averages just fewer than 1,500 tests administered per day, with a rate of more than 6,000 tests per 10,000 people.

With the cooler weather, and residents spending more time indoors, community spread is growing in Howard County, Ball said. Even small family gatherings can be dangerous, he said, and asymptomatic family members and friends can spread coronavirus if they have been exposed.

This will make the holidays difficult, but Howard County Health Officer Dr. Maura Rossman advises the following:
1. Avoid crowds and limit your time in retail shops, restaurants and bars
2. Plan outdoor events when possible
3. Limit the number of guests and the length of time spent together
4. Remind guests of your expectations, including wearing masks and distancing

“Data shows that we continue to move in the wrong direction,” said Dr. Maura Rossman, Howard County Health Officer. “Everyone must adhere to the strategies we know will make a difference. More restrictions may be needed to save lives.”