Cape May County Warns Against 'COVID Fatigue'

CAPE MAY COUNTY, NJ — Cape May County officials warned residents against "COVID fatigue." The winter months will be key to keeping residents and the local economy healthy, according to officials.

“We appreciate the hard work that has been done by Cape May County residents this year,” said Freeholder Director Gerald M. Thornton. “We understand COVID fatigue is a real thing, but the only way to keep our families safe and our businesses is open is to follow the safety protocols until we can get a vaccine.”

The Cape May County Health Department reported 33 active cases, 126 people cleared off quarantine and three deaths in Ocean City as of Wednesday afternoon. County-wide, the agency has reported 185 active cases, 1,419 people cleared off quarantine and 94 deaths.

Coronavirus cases rose throughout New Jersey and the nation in recent weeks. Cape May County and the rest of the Garden State currently have "moderate" coronavirus activity, according to the New Jersey Department of Health.

County officials asked people to take basic steps to slow the spread of the virus: wear a face covering, maintain 6 feet of distance, keep group settings outdoors as much as possible, properly sanitize high-touch surfaces and wash hands frequently.

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The county is working toward expanding testing over the next 26 weeks through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Epidemiology and Laboratory Capacity (ELC)-Enhancing Detection Grant. Read more: Mobile Coronavirus Testing Coming To Ocean City

“We are asking people to stay vigilant and follow the necessary steps to slow the spread,” said Freeholder Jeff Pierson. “We have come a long way from earlier this year, and we want to people to stay as safe as possible.”

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