DPH Encourages Public to get Updated Boosters and Learn about Treatment Options

DOVER, Del. (March 17, 2023) -  The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) saw a decrease in case rates and hospitalizations from COVID-19 over the past month and urges residents to remain vigilant and use the tools proven successful in the fight against the virus to continue these trends.

While rates are down from the peak of the pandemic, individuals are still being hospitalized at a concerning rate from COVID-19. From October 8, 2022 through the end of February 2023, 3,570 people were newly admitted to Delaware hospitals with confirmed or suspected COVID-19. The daily total of new admissions was highest on January 6, 2023, when 62 people were newly admitted to the hospital that day.

Treatment is a proven tool available to individuals who test positive for COVID-19 and meet certain requirements to help reduce symptoms and prevent severe illness and hospitalization. It is available via oral medication (pills that can be taken right at home) or IV infusion, depending on what is best for the individual and their condition. Treatment is most effective if started within five days of symptoms beginning, so getting it early is key. If an individual who tests positive is over age 50, is unvaccinated, or has pre-existing medical conditions, they should contact their health care provider or visit a test-to-treat location to see if treatment is right for them. For more information on treatment options and test-to-treat locations throughout Delaware, visit de.gov/covidtreatments.

The other tools that have proven successful against COVID-19 include staying home if sick and getting tested if showing symptoms or exposed to someone with COVID-19; wearing a mask if cases are high or if in contact with an immunocompromised individual; and staying up-to-date with vaccinations and boosters. Individuals who are unsure about whether they are current on their vaccinations should visit de.gov/boosters to access a simple, easy-to-use chart outlining all current vaccination situations and age groups and detailing any action that should be taken.

As the federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) for COVID-19 is expected to end on May 11, 2023, the State of Delaware and those at DPH prepare for the many changes that will come with such action. The Division of Public Health has been working to update its data collection methods and determine which data sets will be available and most accurate for analysis following the end of the Public Health Emergency.

Full data on the impact of the pandemic in Delaware since its onset and current analysis continues to be available on the MyHealthyCommunity portal at https://myhealthycommunity.dhss.delaware.gov/home.

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations:

  • Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 332,526
  • 7-day daily average of new positive cases: 55.7, a decrease of 89.4 average new positive cases reported since last month.
  • 7-day daily average for the percentage of total positive tests: 6.7 percentage points, a decrease of 6.3 percentage points from last month.
  • Hospitalizations: 78 current hospitalizations, 7 critical hospitalizations
  • Total COVID-19 deaths: 3,342 – an increase of 54 from last month.
    *Case and testing data are based on reporting of lab-confirmed COVID-19 tests only. The number of COVID-19 cases in the community is higher than what is reported because of the use of at-home test kits.

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

  • Total number of doses administered in Delaware (CDC data): 2,160,480
  • Percentage of Delawareans who have completed the primary vaccine series (CDC data): 73.4%
  • Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who have received an updated bivalent booster dose (CDC data): 21.9%

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of non-boosted cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame of March 6, 2023 – March 12, 2023.

Not up-to-date: Case – Hospital – Death

Weekly Overview
(03/06/23 – 03/12/23)

Not up-to-date Cases

Total Not up-to-date Cases — 396

Total Cases — 440

Percent of Not up-to-date Cases — 90%

Not up-to-date Hospitalized Cases

Total Not up-to-date Hospitalized Cases — 196

Total Hospitalized Cases — 244

Percent of Not up-to-date Cases — 80%

Not up-to-date Deaths

Total Not up-to-date Deaths — 0

Total COVID-19 Deaths — 2

Percent of Not up-to-date Deaths — 0%

Note:
Case and Hospitalization Count: based on RTS (Report to State Date)
Death: based on patient DoD (Date of Death)
Not up-to-date: all cases that are not completed a COVID-19 vaccine primary series and/or have not received the most recent booster dose recommended by CDC. (CDC’s guidance updated March 2nd 2023)

DE resident only*

 

Long-term Care Statistics:

As of Tuesday, March 14, 2023, there have been a total of 1,041 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 5,663 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Resources:

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org.

Hours of operation are Monday – Friday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.


Delaware Division of Public Health Announces Changes to Access for COVID-19 Testing in Delaware

DOVER, DE (Dec. 20, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is announcing changes to COVID-19 testing access in Delaware. Based on operational needs, DPH’s valued partner Curative has decided not to renew its testing contract with the state when it ends in the next two weeks. As a result, Wednesday, Dec. 28 will be the last day for Curative test site collection. Other Curative sites, such as the one located at the University of Delaware, have already closed. The last day for Curative testing at Delaware State Service Centers will be Friday, Dec. 23.

“We greatly appreciate the incredible support and service that Curative has provided to the residents of Delaware throughout the pandemic,” said DPH Interim Director Dr. Rick Hong. “We recognize that some people may be concerned about this change, but we want to reassure Delawareans that there remains ample access to COVID-19 testing in the state. DPH will continue to support federal programs that facilitate testing and treatments, continue to offer free testing at public health clinics, and inform the public about how to obtain at-home test kits, in most cases, for free. Testing remains a critical tool for detecting COVID-19 in patients, leading to faster treatment. Through our community partners we will continue to meet public health needs. Getting vaccinated is still the most effective way to help protect yourself against severe COVID-19 illness and death, and we encourage Delawareans to speak with their health care provider to discuss available options.” 

There are still many COVID-19 testing options available in Delaware: 

  1. Search our online testing locator at de.gov/gettested for other available testing locations such as pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers or provider offices. *

*Most sites will require a person to show their insurance card. Those without insurance will be charged. Often, medically necessary tests will be no charge, but non-medically necessary testing could cost $130 or more for people who are uninsured.  Contact the site in advance to confirm insurance requirements.

Those who need test results for travel should search the testing locator to find out which sites offer PCR tests, as rapid antigen tests are not accepted to satisfy federal travel requirements. DPH suggests individuals contact the location directly to learn more about result turn-around times.

  1. Contact your primary care provider. 
  2. Those who are uninsured and underinsured can visit a DPH Public Health Clinic for free testing. 
  3. Secure an at-home test kit. 
    1. The White House just announced that it is making up to four free at-home tests per household available on Covidtest.gov. Tests will be mailed to your home after registration.
    2. Insured individuals are eligible for up to eight free at-home tests per covered member per month.  Most people with a health plan can go online, or to a pharmacy or store to get an at-home COVID-19 test at no cost, either through reimbursement or free of charge through their insurance. Learn more details here.
    3. Medicare Part B Recipients – Delawareans with Medicare Part B, including those enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, have access to over-the-counter COVID-19 tests at no cost. The initiative continues until the COVID-19 public health emergency ends. People with Medicare can get up to eight tests per calendar month from participating pharmacies and health care providers.
    4. Community Organizations – They can order cases of free at-home test kits from DPH to distribute within your communities by filling out this form: https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/177/2020/10/SHOC-Resource-Request-Form.pdf and emailing it to dhss06sg_shoc_operations@delaware.gov . If organizations have questions about completing the form, they can email the staff at SHOC operations using the email address indicated for submitting the form, and staff will assist them.
    5. At-home test kits are available for purchase at pharmacies, grocery stores and many other locations throughout the state. Most fall in the range of between $10 and $25. 

DPH reminds the public not to go to a hospital Emergency Department (ED) just for a COVID test. Hospitals are managing heavy volumes of patient visits for influenza and other respiratory viruses and a COVID-test in and of itself is not considered an emergency. You should visit an ED if you are having chest pains or difficulty breathing, have serious burns, or broken bones. If you need a PCR test so you can get COVID treatment prescribed for you, visit https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/covid-19-treatment-options/ and learn more about Test to Treat resources in the State.

Resources:    

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:    

  • Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.    
  • Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.    

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.   

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please dial or text 9-1-1.

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.   

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The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, is a nationally accredited public health agency recognized by the Public Health Accreditation Board for its outstanding dedication to driving change through innovation. DPH is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. 

Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind, or speech-disabled can contact DPH by first dialing 711 using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free; to learn more about how it works, visit delawarerelay.com.  


Weekly Covid-19 Update – January 28, 2022: Delaware Remains Vigilant As Downward Case, Hospitalization Trends Continue

DOVER, DE (Jan. 28, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is providing an update on the most recent statistics related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Delaware, as of Thursday, Jan 27, 2022. DPH reports a 57 percent decrease in the seven-day average of new positive cases reported since the peak of the surge on Jan. 12, 2022. The current seven-day average of new positive cases reported has declined to 1,448 as of Thursday. Jan. 27.

Case totals remain elevated, so Delawareans should continue to take important steps to keep themselves and others safe and to maintain positive new data trends. 

  • Get vaccinated and boosted. COVID-19 vaccines continue to offer the best protection against infection, hospitalization and death. 
  • Wear a well-fitting mask in public and when around others outside of your household. Make sure your mask fits properly over your nose and mouth. 
  • Stay home if you have symptoms or if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. Avoid non-essential in-person social gatherings. 
  • Go to the emergency room if you have a true emergency, but do not go to the ER only for a COVID-19 test. Our hospitals are strained, and emergency departments need to be preserved for life-threatening emergencies. 
  • Get tested if: 

§ You have symptoms. 

§ It has been five days after you were exposed to someone with COVID-19. 

§ You are unvaccinated (those not vaccinated should be tested once per week). 

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations: 

  • Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 246,037 
  • 7-day average of new positive cases: 1448.9, a decrease of 683.2 from last week. 
  • 7-day average for the percentage of total positive tests: 21.6%, a decrease of 6 percentage points from last week 
  • Hospitalizations: 453, a decrease of 168 from last week; critically ill: 47, a decrease of 21 from last week  
  • Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,498 
  • Total COVID-19 deaths reported since last week: 48, including 7 from a review of vital statistics records.   

COVID-19 Vaccinations:  

  • Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,642,264 
  • Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who received at least one dose (CDC data) 85% 
  • Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who received at least one dose (CDC data): 90.2%  
  • Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who received at least one dose (CDC data): 92.1% 
  • Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 66.1%  

All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. Individuals who qualify for a booster dose should get one as soon as possible. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine in Delaware, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. For information on boosters, visit de.gov/boosters. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity 

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:   

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of vaccination status for cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame for Jan.17 – Jan. 23. 

   

Weekly Overview(1/17/22 – 1/23/22)

Unvaccinated Cases

Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases

6614

Total Cases

11661

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases

57%

Hospitalizations

Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized Cases

183

Total Hospitalized Cases

292

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized Cases

63%

Deaths

Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths

24

Total COVID-19 Deaths

40

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths

60%

   

Weekly Overview(1/17/22 – 1/23/22)

Non-boosted Cases

Total Non-boosted Cases

10021

Total Cases

11661

Percent of Non-boosted Cases

86%

Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases

Total Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases

258

Total Hospitalized Cases

292

Percent of Non-boosted Cases

88%

Non-boosted Deaths

Total Non-boosted Deaths

33

Total COVID-19 Deaths

40

Percent of Non-boosted Cases

83%

 

  

Breakthrough Cases (cumulative since vaccinations began): 

  • Total breakthrough cases: 18,698, or 3.2% of fully vaccinated individuals  
  • Total breakthrough hospitalizations: 208 
  • Total breakthrough deaths: 191

 

A breakthrough case is defined as testing positive for COVID-19 after an individual has been fully vaccinated for two weeks or more.

COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:   

Of the samples collected during the week of Jan. 7 – Jan. 13, the Omicron variant represented 97.4% of cases sequenced for a variant of concern, variant of interest, or variant being monitored. The remaining 2.6% of sequenced cases were identified as Delta. 

As a reminder, DPH is now providing variant data based on sample collection date rather than sequencing date, due to the length of time between sample collection (when a person is tested) and when samples are sequenced by laboratories, which can be lagged by two weeks or longer. This will more accurately reflect the proportion of specific variants that are circulating in the community at various points in time. 

The Delaware Public Health Laboratory and other laboratories regularly monitor for the presence of COVID-19 variants, including Delta and Omicron, through routine genomic sequencing of test specimens. Genome sequencing is a public health surveillance tool used to monitor the prevalence of COVID-19 variants; it is not used to diagnose individuals with a specific strain of COVID-19, as treatment recommendations do not differ based on variant strains. COVID-19 tests identify current infection of COVID-19, but do not identify a specific variant of the virus the individual might have. 

Long-term Care Statistics:  

As of Thursday, Jan. 27, there have been a total of 3,045 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 896 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.  

Flu Update:

There were 12 laboratory-confirmed cases reported the week of Jan. 16 – Jan. 22. As of Jan. 22, 2022, the most recent date for which flu statistics are available, there have been 607 laboratory-confirmed cases for the current season. The cases involved 423 individuals from New Castle County, 79 from Kent County and 105 from Sussex County. This number reflects only the number of lab-confirmed cases; the actual number of cases circulating statewide is likely higher as not all people with the flu seek treatment, and many cases are diagnosed through rapid test kits in a provider’s office versus a lab. 

All individuals 6 months and older are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated against the flu if they haven’t already. Flu vaccines are available at pharmacies (including those in grocery stores), participating medical provider offices, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for their patients), as well as Division of Public Health clinics. DPH is also advising the public that the flu vaccine can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine. 

For the latest information on the flu in Delaware, visit flu.delaware.gov. 

Resources:  

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:  

Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.  

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov 

Delawareans 18 or older are encouraged to download COVID Alert DE, Delaware’s free exposure notification app to help protect your neighbors while ensuring your privacy. Download on the App Store or Google Play.  

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.  

  

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Anyone who is deaf, hard of hearing, Deaf-Blind or speech disabled can contact DPH by dialing 711 first using specialized devices (i.e., TTY, TeleBraille, voice devices). The 711 service is free and to learn more about how it works, please visit delawarerelay.com. 

The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.


State of Delaware Partners with FEMA to Open COVID-19 Testing Center

Testing available by appointment at www.ineedacovid19test.com

DOVER, DE (JAN. 14, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) and the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) announced today that the State of Delaware is partnering with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to open a free COVID-19 drive-thru testing site from Jan. 17 to Feb. 7, 2022. The site will be hosted at the Delaware City Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and operate on evenings and weekends, six days a week, closing on Wednesdays when DMV has regular evening business hours. Appointments are required for testing at this site. 

Today’s announcement marks a necessary response to the recent surge of COVID-19 cases largely fueled by the Omicron variant, which has resulted in unprecedented demand for COVID-19 testing. Testing demand statewide has nearly tripled since the week before Thanksgiving, with 23,000 tests administered the week prior to Thanksgiving, and 61,000 tests administered last week. The highest demand has been centralized in New Castle County.

“The demand for testing is at an all-time high and our resources are strained. Having this site will serve as a relief valve for our testing partners, particularly in New Castle County,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We appreciate the assistance from our federal partners and the testing staff coming to provide Delawareans with another testing option for the next several weeks to help get us through this surge.”

“We are excited that our Federal partners have provided this testing site that will help us meet the increased demand, said A.J. Schall, Director of the Delaware Emergency Management Agency. “The hours complement other options and help expand evening and weekend availability.”

FEMA has contracted with eTrueNorth to offer testing services that include evening hours and weekends. Individuals will be tested with a PCR shallow nasal swab and results are expected to be returned in 48-72 hours. Appointments will be required.

“FEMA’s Public Assistance Program continues to support COVID-19 expanding hospital capacity as well as other initiatives such as COVID-19 testing, vaccination, personal protective equipment, administration, and surge staffing” said FEMA Regional Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. “FEMA will continue to provide this important resource to help meet public health and safety needs, posed by the pandemic, in an equitable and efficient manner.”

“eTrueNorth has enabled millions of PCR COVID-19 tests across the country since the start of this pandemic. We are so pleased to partner with U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Delaware to increase Americans’ access to COVID-19 testing,” said Coral May, eTrueNorth CEO. “These COVID-19 tests are free to individuals. Every individual needs to register at www.ineedacovid19test.com and obtain a voucher for each individual in their family that will be tested.”

The Delaware City DMV is located at 2101 Mid County Drive, New Castle, Delaware. For the first day of operations, Monday Jan. 17, 2022, appointments will be available between 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Following the first day of testing, appointments will be available for the following days of the week:

  • Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays: 5:30 p.m. – 11:30 p.m.
  • Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
  • Sundays: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

To make an appointment, individuals must register on the eTrueNorth Covid-19 testing website. Each individual that will be tested must create an account. After completing the initial screening questionnaire, users will schedule an appointment. A confirmation voucher will be provided and should be brought to the testing site. Testing is free and is available for all ages.

Registrants will use their username and password to access test results when they are available. The best way to schedule an appointment time is to visit http://www.doineedacovid19test.com. Those who have questions or need assistance with registering for an appointment, can email COVID19@eTrueNorth.com or call 1-800-635-8611.

For those unable to access the site due to transportation or other barriers, they are encouraged to take advantage of the hundreds of testing sites statewide and at-home test options, which can be found at de.gov/gettested.

Evening & Weekend Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing. Delaware City DMV, Jan. 18-Feb. 7, Mon-Tue-Thu-Fri: 5:30 pm-11:30 pm; Sat: 8 am-4 pm; Sun: 10 am-6 pm. Appointments Required. Questions? COVID19@eTrueNorth.com or 1-800-635-8611. Evening and Weekend Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing, Delaware City DMV, Starting Monday, Jan. 17, 2-8 pm. Appointments Required. Questions? COVID19@TrueNorth.com or 1-800-635-8611. Evening and Weekend Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing, Delaware City DMV, Starting Monday, Jan. 17, 2-8 pm. Appointments Required. Questions? COVID19@TrueNorth.com or 1-800-635-8611. Evening and Weekend Drive-Thru COVID-19 Testing, Delaware City DMV, Starting Monday, Jan. 17, 2-8 pm. Appointments Required. Questions? COVID19@TrueNorth.com or 1-800-635-8611.


Weekly COVID-19 Update- October 22, 2021 COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations Continue Steady Downward Trend

DOVER (OCT. 22, 2021) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) is providing an update on the most recent statistics related to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Delaware, as of 6 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021.   

  

  • Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 141,717
  • 7-day average of new positive cases: 333.4, a decrease from 389.4 last week
  • 7-day average for the percentage of total positive tests: 7%, a decrease from 8% last week
  • Hospitalizations: 173, a decrease of 34 from last weekCritically ill: 24, a decrease of six from last week 
  • Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,045
  • Total COVID-19 deaths since last week: 24

 

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

  • Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,237,206
  • Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who have received at least one dose (CDC data): 79.2%
  • Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who received at least one dose (CDC data): 81%
  • Delawareans who are fully vaccinated: 528,767

  

Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection, serious illness and death. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine in Delaware, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity  

 

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:  

The following report captures a weekly breakdown of vaccination status for cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame for Oct. 11 – Oct 17. The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated.

Weekly Overview
(10/11 -10/17)

Unvaccinated Cases

Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases

1898

Total Cases

2502

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases

76%

Hospitalizations

Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases

98

Total Hospitalized Cases

125

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases

78%

Deaths

Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths

7

Total COVID-19 Deaths

13

Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths

54%

A breakthrough case is defined as testing positive for COVID-19 after an individual has been fully vaccinated for two weeks or more – although it does not mean that the infection occurred after vaccination. 

 

COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:  

In the last week, 359 test samples were sequenced through routine surveillance of test specimens. Of those test samples, 263 (73.3%) sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 24 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. Out of the 287 variant positive samples, all were identified as the Delta strain.

 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently updated the classifications of known COVID-19 variants. Currently, the Delta variant is the only variant being monitored by the CDC as a “variant of concern” and no other variants are currently classified as “variants of interest.” For more information regarding CDC variant classifications, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html 

    

DPH COVID-19 Vaccine Mobile Units: 

DPH officials in partnership with medical staff from the Delaware National Guard (DNG) have launched mobile units to offer COVID-19 vaccines in underserved communities. With the official start of Flu Season, the flu vaccine will also be available and can be administered at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine.

 

The mobile units, which utilize trailers to transport the vaccine and provide vaccinations, are scheduled to visit these communities in New Castle, Kent and Sussex counties next week. COVID-19 testing will be available at each location. 

    

Monday, October 25

Philadelphia Pentecostal Holiness Church, 13724 S. Old Stage Road, Ellendale, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

 

Tuesday, October 26

Emerald City Wash World, 730 W. Division Street, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  

Wawa, 1450 Forrest Avenue, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

3007 Governor Printz Blvd, Wilmington, 11:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, October 27

Dover Downs, 1131 N Dupont Hwy, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wilmington Farmers Market, 1000 North Market Street, Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Adams Four Shopping Center, 800 West 3rd Street, Wilmington, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, October 28

Seaford City Hall, 414 High Street, Seaford, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

 

Friday, October 29

Nylon Plaza Shopping Center, 800 Atlanta Road, Seaford, 10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

634 South Maryland Avenue, Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

 

*dates may be rescheduled if there is inclement weather  

  

For a full list of community-based events statewide including those organized by vaccinating partners and community groups at de.gov/getmyvaccine 

 

Long-term Care Statistics: 

As of 6:00 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 21, there have been a total of 2,914 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 852 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.   

      

Resources:

Individuals with general questions about COVID-19 should call Delaware 2-1-1, individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can text their ZIP code to 898-211, or email delaware211@uwde.org. Hours of operation are:  

  

Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.   

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.   

  

Medically related questions regarding testing, symptoms, and health-related guidance can be submitted by email at DPHCall@delaware.gov.     

  

Delawareans 18 or older are encouraged to download COVID Alert DE, Delaware’s free exposure notification app to help protect your neighbors while ensuring your privacy. Download on the App Store or Google Play  

    

DPH will continue to update the public as more information becomes available. For the latest on Delaware’s response, go to de.gov/coronavirus.