As it gets closer to the first doses of COVID vaccines becoming available in Cape May County, there are questions about who will receive the first shots. In Phase 1, when limited doses are available, the front of the line as determined by the State of New Jersey is Healthcare workers who many have contact with infected patients or infectious materials, other essential workers, and people at higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness. This final group includes those who are over 65 years old and those with underlying health conditions. As such, the Cape May County Department of Health is beginning to work with local municipalities to begin planning for the vaccination of first responders and other essential personnel. The goal of the State is to vaccinate 70% of the population in the first six months. More information on the State’s vaccine plan can be found here https://www.state.nj.us/health/cd/topics/covid2019_vaccination.shtml
The County of Cape May Department of Health is announcing today that 54 new positive test samples were collected among County residents over the past several days. While Cape May County has recorded 3307 Covid-19 cases during the pandemic, 2643 of those are now off quarantine. Additionally, there is 1 new out of county positive case that is included in the Non-resident Active Cases listed below.
Most people with Covid-19 do not need medical attention.
Steps to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 if you are sick
If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you might have COVID-19, follow the steps below to care for yourself and to help protect other people in your home and community.
Stay home except to get medical care
- Stay home. Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home without medical care. Do not leave your home, except to get medical care. Do not visit public areas.
- Take care of yourself. Get rest and stay hydrated. Take over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen, to help you feel better.
- Stay in touch with your doctor. Call before you get medical care. Be sure to get care if you have trouble breathing, or have any other emergency warning signs, or if you think it is an emergency.
- Avoid public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.
Separate yourself from other people
As much as possible, stay in a specific room and away from other people and pets in your home. If possible, you should use a separate bathroom. If you need to be around other people or animals in or outside of the home, wear a mask.
Tell your close contacts that they may have been exposed to COVID-19. An infected person can spread COVID-19 starting 48 hours (or 2 days) before the person has any symptoms or tests positive. By letting your close contacts know they may have been exposed to COVID-19, you are helping to protect everyone.
Monitor your symptoms
- Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, or other symptoms.
- Follow care instructions from your healthcare provider and local health department. Your local health authorities may give instructions on checking your symptoms and reporting information.
When to seek emergency medical attention
Look for emergency warning signs* for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion
- Inability to wake or stay awake
- Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.
Sadly, today we are announcing the passing of an 79-year-old male from Wildwood Crest, “My heart goes out to the friends and family during this time of sorrow,” said Cape May County Freeholder Jeff Pierson.
