Infection Rate Up, But Morris Co. Remains At Medium Risk: Report

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ - COVID in Morris County is spreading in a slow and controlled fashion, despite an uptick in infection rate according to the Covid ActNow group. Morris was listed in the medium level of COVID risk as of Monday.

"Morris County's COVID preparedness meets international standards. If this trend continues, Morris County may eventually achieve herd immunity, though this may take years," the report said.

The update comes as New Jersey has been again determined to be one of only three states — with Vermont and New Hampshire — as on track to contain the coronavirus.

New Jersey had been on the list of "green" states in late June but was removed by early July when the state's rate of transmission rose to 1.1. That means every person with coronavirus was transmitting the disease to more than 1 person at a time.

The state's rate has since dipped 0.84 since the New Jersey issued a public mask order and dealt with a few hot spots in Manasquan, Hoboken and Westfield, among other places.

New York, Massachusetts and Michigan were also among the states that have been listed as being "on track" but have since been removed from the list.

Gov. Phil Murphy said New Jersey has once again gotten there because of the social distancing measures that have been in place since March, and the self-discipline New Jerseyans have shown in adhering to those measures.

In Morris County, the infection rate was .97, and increase from .91, noting that the disease is spreading slowly. In terms of ICU headroom used, the study notes that Morris County, has about 99 ICU beds. Based on best available data, the estimate that 48 percent are currently occupied by non-COVID patients. With 51 ICU beds remaining, they estimate five are needed by COVID cases, or 10 percent of available beds. This suggests there is likely enough capacity to absorb a wave of new COVID infections, researchers said.

The study also noted that from April 9 through May 4 ICU capacity was at 100 percent in Morris County and didn't drop out of the critical threshold until May 14.

You can view the full report on the website.

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