COVID-19 cases continue to surge; vaccination rates lag

COVID-19 numbers continue to rise in Pike County, according to the Pike County Health Department’s (PCHD) Monday, Jan. 10 news release.
As of Monday, PCHD reports that there are over 192 active cases in Pike County. Pike County’s positivity rate is 18.9 percent, which is considered “substantial” according to public health agencies.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 39.1percent of Pike County’s population is fully vaccinated, 42.9 percent of the population have had at least one COVID-19 vaccination.
Over the past weekend, PCHD was notified of 78 new cases and one additional COVID-19 related death. PCHD staff members continue to work through outbreaks in congregate care settings, such as nursing homes, correctional facilities, and schools.
PCHD is providing free COVID testing at the health department located at 606 W Adams St. in Pittsfield. Testing will be offered Monday – Thursday from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Residents are directed to follow signage for COVID testing. Participants will need to remain in their vehicle and park in the designated area. A staff member will come to your vehicle to administer the test.
Please note that this testing is NOT a rapid test. Tests results will be available in 2-3 days. Participants will receive instructions via email on how to retrieve their results. If the participant does not have an email address, PCHD will call with results.
Results of the test will be available approximately 48-72 hours from test date.
Anyone testing positive will receive a text from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) with a link to follow as well as a contact phone number (312-777-1999). Anyone needing a return to work letter will also need to call the 312-777-1999 phone number.
PCHD also provides free COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots. Clinics will be every Thursday in January, 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. at the health department. Please go to www.pikecountyil.org for more information.