I've had some news this week that is both good and bad. The bad news is that I’ve heard of several “breakthrough” cases of COVID just this week. That means that the person has been vaccinated and they then test positive for COVID. But while concerning, in each case the person did not become severely ill. In fact, none were hospitalized. And that's the good news, our vaccines work! Being fully vaccinated doesn’t mean that you cannot contract the COVID-19, but rather, if you do contract it, you’re much less likely to become severely ill.
COVID Trends in DC
While Ward 3 seniors are among the most vaccinated in the city (nearly 80% of those over 65 are fully vaccinated), the latest DC data on COVID infections tells us that the city is experiencing an increase in COVID cases. In this CDC article, you can read about how the variants are two times more contagious which helps to explain this trend.
So what should we do to protect ourselves?
Most importantly, if you are able to be vaccinated (and some people cannot due to certain health conditions), please do so. The Woodley Park-Cleveland Park vaccination rate stands at 52% (we can do better!).
Once vaccinated, it is important that each of us follow the Mayor’s July 31 order which states that all people, regardless of vaccination status, should wear a mask indoors, with some exceptions.
Why Masks Remain an Important Tool
You can read the full order here, but the general information holds that “masks are a powerful tool for preventing the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19. Masks act as a simple barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from traveling into the air and to other people when the person wearing the mask talks, coughs, sneezes, or raises their voice. This is called source control. Wearing masks is important to prevent asymptomatic spread of the virus that causes COVID-19.” You can read the CDC’s guidance on which types of masks are best by clicking here.
I’ll admit that it’s getting old always wearing a mask, but given all that I’ve learned, I know its time for us, individually and collectively, to recommit to making this just part of what we do.
We look for our keys, wallets/purses, and our mask before heading out the door!
There’s also the awkward situation when someone near us doesn’t have a mask on. It’s OK to ask someone to put their mask on! People sometimes forget so a gentle reminder that everyone should “mask up” is completely acceptable. Asking is an important means of taking care of yourself.
Have a great weekend and stay safe.
P.S. Join us online for our Chef’s Secret cooking demonstration with Woodley Park’s new restaurant, Bistro Bites. It’s on Wednesday at 3pm via Zoom and you can register here!
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