DOVER (OCTOBER 1, 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, September 30, 2021.

A total of 133,599 positive cases of COVID-19 among Delaware residents have been reported to DPH since March 11, 2020. The seven-day average of new positive cases decreased to 452.7 as of Thursday, September 30, 2021.

As of Tuesday, September 28, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 7.5%, the same percentage as Tuesday, September 21. There is a two-day lag for presenting data related to percent of tests that are positive to account for the time delay between the date of the test and the date that DPH receives the test result.

In addition, 225 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, the same number as last week. Thirty-five of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, a decrease of one from last week.

A total of 1,954 Delawareans have died due to complications from COVID-19. Twelve deaths were reported in the past week. The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old.

DPH Encourages Use of COVID-19 Testing Sites for Non-Emergency Testing:

Hospitals and Emergency Departments across the state are experiencing severe strain on their systems due to new COVID-19 cases. Unfortunately, visits by parents or guardians of children with a fever who are seeking a COVID-19 test and assessment, are contributing to that strain. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use COVID-19 testing sites and not hospital emergency departments for non-emergency situations. For a full list of testing sites visit de.gov/gettested.

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

According to data the CDC, 78.6% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. October 1, 2021, a total of 1,172,798 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 577,315 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 528,466 Delawareans are fully vaccinated. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.

The science is clear that the vaccines are extremely safe and effective and Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection and serious illness. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

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 September 20 – September 26. The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated. Vaccination continues to be the most important factor in reducing deaths and hospitalizations from COVID-19.

Weekly Overview (9/20 -9/26)
Unvaccinated Cases
Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	2490
Total Cases	3158
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	79%
Hospitalizations
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	106
Total Hospitalized Cases	131
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	81%
Deaths
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	10
Total COVID-19 Deaths	13
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	77%

 

Breakthrough Cases: 

To date, 528,466 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 3,768 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately seven-tenths of 1 percent of vaccinated individuals. Seventy of the reported breakthrough cases identified since vaccinations began involved hospitalizations and 44 individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID-19 was the cause of death.

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.

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:

In the last week, 182 test samples were sequenced through routine surveillance of test specimens. Of those test samples, 111 (61%) sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were five additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. All 116 variant positive samples 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 4

Dollar Tree, 2400 Northeast Boulevard, Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m

Tuesday, October 5

Carroll’s Plaza, 1114 S. DuPont Highway, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Country Farms, 1014 S. Little Creek Road, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

National Night Out Event, 1000 North Market Street, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday, October 6

Wawa, 1450 Forest Street, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Adams Four Shopping Center, 800 W. Third St., Wilmington, 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Goodwill / Rodney Village, 1678 S. Governors Avenue, Dover 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Faith and Blue, 3601 North DuPont Highway, New Castle, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 7

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

Friday, October 8

New Mount Olive Baptist Church, 4412 Washington Boulevard, Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 9

Delaware State University, 3931 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, 11 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Father Tucker Park, 1801 West 9th Street, Wilmington, 11:00 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, Sept. 30, there have been a total of 2,897 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 842 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Symptoms and Testing:

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons to be aware of and self-monitor for the symptoms of COVID-19. DPH recommends that unvaccinated people get tested once a week. Even fully vaccinated persons should get tested if they develop symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

If you are sick with any of the following symptoms, stay home: fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, shaking with chills, loss of smell or taste, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, or headache or congestion or runny nose without a known cause such as allergies. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain or lack of appetite have been identified as potential symptoms related to COVID-19 and may prompt further screening, action or investigation by a primary care provider.

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

Questions related to business re-openings or operations as businesses re-open should go to COVID19FAQ@delaware.gov. Questions regarding unemployment claims should be emailed to: UIClaims@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.

DOVER (SEPTEMBER 24, 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, September 23, 2021.

A total of 130,444 positive cases of COVID-19 among Delaware residents have been reported to DPH since March 11, 2020. The seven-day average of new positive cases decreased to 464.3 as of Thursday, September 23, 2021.

As of Tuesday, September 21, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 7.7%, a decrease from 8.1% as of Tuesday, September 14. There is a two-day lag for presenting data related to percent of tests that are positive to account for the time delay between the date of the test and the date that DPH receives the test result.

In addition, 225 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, a decrease of 34 from last week. Thirty-six of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, a decrease of six from last week.

A total of 1,942 Delawareans have died due to complications from COVID-19. Twenty-nine deaths were reported in the past week, 12 of which were from a review of vital statistics. The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old.

DPH Encourages Use of COVID-19 Testing Sites for Non-Emergency Testing:

Hospitals and Emergency Departments across the state are experiencing severe strain on their systems due to new COVID-19 cases. Unfortunately, visits by parents or guardians of children with a fever who are seeking a COVID-19 test and assessment, are contributing to that strain. Parents and guardians are encouraged to use COVID-19 testing sites and not hospital emergency departments for non-emergency situations. For a full list of testing sites visit [de.gov/gettested]de.gov/gettested.

DPH Advises Vaccine Providers to Offer Pfizer Booster to Eligible Delawareans:

Today, DPH announced that the state’s vaccine providers can begin administering booster doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to certain populations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Based on CDC recommendations, the following people should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech.

• People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings
• People aged 50–64 years with underlying medical conditions, which include but are not limited to: cancer, chronic heart, lung and kidney diseases, dementia, diabetes, down syndrome, HIV, overweight and obesity, pregnancy, organ transplants, and stroke.

Additionally, CDC recommends the following individuals may also receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech.

• People aged 18–49 years with underlying medical conditions (the same categories as mentioned above), based on their individual benefits and risk
• People aged 18–64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting, including, health care workers, teachers and day care staff, grocery workers and those in homeless shelters or prisons, among others.

COVID-19 vaccine providers in Delaware may begin administering booster doses of Pfizer immediately or as soon as they are able. Members of the public who are eligible for a booster shot are recommended to seek vaccine at existing vaccine sites including pharmacies, health care providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for patients), and standing DPH Vaccine sites:

• Blue Hen Corporate Center: 655 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901
• Georgetown Plaza: 19 Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, DE 19947
• Canby Park: 1920 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
• University Plaza, 256 Chapman Road, Suite 100, Newark, DE 19702

According to CDC, while data show vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and severe disease, a booster shot will help provide continued protection against severe disease in these populations who are especially at risk for severe COVID-19, including those over 65, residents of long-term care facilities, and persons 50 – 64 with underlying health conditions. DPH is encouraging individuals in these most at-risk categories to seek booster vaccines first.

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

According to data the CDC, 78% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. September 24, 2021, a total of 1,158,602 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 572,973 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 519,380 Delawareans are fully vaccinated. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.

The science is clear that the vaccines are extremely safe and effective and Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection and serious illness. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

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 September 13 – September 19. The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated. Vaccination continues to be the most important factor in reducing deaths and hospitalizations from COVID-19.

Breakthrough Cases: 

To date, 519,380 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 3,359 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately six-tenths of 1 percent of vaccinated individuals. Sixty-six of the reported breakthrough cases identified since vaccinations began involved hospitalizations and 39 individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID-19 was the cause of death. Breakthrough cases continue to be extremely rare. The best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.

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.

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:

As of Friday, September 24, the Division of Public Health has identified the following COVID-19 variants in Delaware through routine surveillance of test specimens. These variants are based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of Variants of Concern and Variants of Interest. The below table represents cumulative totals.

Variants of Concern
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	1008
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	64
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	1038

 

 

 

Variants of Interest
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Eta/B.1.525	UK/Nigeria (formerly New York, US)	2
Iota/B.1.526/B.1526.1	New York, US	352

 

Of the test samples that were sequenced in the last week, 230 (71.9%) of the 320 test samples sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 12 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. All but one of the 242 variant positive samples this week were identified as the Delta variant strain; the other sample was identified as the Mu variant. The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 4,825 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date.

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and is not used for diagnosing COVID-19 but is used after a positive case of COVID-19 has been identified for surveillance purposes, or in identifying the presence of a variant strain in the community.

For more information regarding CDC variant classifications, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html.

DPH COVID 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. 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, September 27

Governors Square Shopping Center, 901 Governors Place, Bear, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, September 28

Royal Farms, 6538 Halltown Road, Hartly, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Gateway South Shopping Center, 250 Gateway S. Blvd., Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 29

Wilmington Farmers Market, 1000 N. Market St., Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Dover Housing Authority, 375 Simon Circle, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wawa, 1525 E. Lebanon Road, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Adams Four Shopping Center, 800 W. Third St., Wilmington, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 30

Simmons Feed Ingredients, 7494 Federalsburg Road, Bridgeville, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Friday, October 1

Latin American Community Center, 301 N. Harrison St., 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, Sept. 23, there have been a total of 2,890 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 841 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Symptoms and Testing:

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons to be aware of and self-monitor for the symptoms of COVID-19. DPH recommends that unvaccinated people get tested once a week.Even fully vaccinated persons should get tested if they develop symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

If you are sick with any of the following symptoms, stay home: fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, shaking with chills, loss of smell or taste, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, or headache or congestion or runny nose without a known cause such as allergies. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain or lack of appetite have been identified as potential symptoms related to COVID-19 and may prompt further screening, action or investigation by a primary care provider.

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

Questions related to business re-openings or operations as businesses re-open should go to COVID19FAQ@delaware.gov. Questions regarding unemployment claims should be emailed to: UIClaims@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.

DOVER (SEPT. 24, 2021) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) today announced that the state’s vaccine providers can begin administering booster doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to certain populations recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

On Wednesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) formally voted to expand the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to allow for a booster dose of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to be administered for certain populations six months after receiving the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine. Boosters are not yet authorized for people who received either the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccine as there is not adequate data to support including them at this time.

CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) met Thursday to provide additional guidance on who should receive a booster dose under the EUA. CDC Director Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky endorsed the advisory committee’s recommendations and also recommended a booster dose for those in high-risk occupational and institutional settings.

Based on CDC recommendations, the following people should receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine at least 6 months after their second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech.

• People 65 years and older and residents in long-term care settings
• People aged 50–64 years with underlying medical conditions, which include but are not limited to: cancer, chronic heart, lung and kidney diseases, dementia, diabetes, down syndrome, HIV, overweight and obesity, pregnancy, organ transplants, and stroke.

Additionally, CDC recommends the following individuals may also receive a booster shot of Pfizer-BioNTech’s -19 vaccine at least 6 months after their second dose of Pfizer-BioNTech.

• People aged 18–49 years with underlying medical conditions (the same categories as mentioned above), based on their individual benefits and risk
• People aged 18–64 years who are at increased risk for COVID-19 exposure and transmission because of occupational or institutional setting, including, health care workers, teachers and day care staff, grocery workers and those in homeless shelters or prisons, among others.

According to CDC, while data show vaccines remain effective in preventing hospitalization and severe disease, a booster shot will help provide continued protection against severe disease in these populations who are especially at risk for severe COVID-19, including those over 65, residents of long-term care facilities, and persons 50 – 64 with underlying health conditions. DPH is encouraging individuals in these most at-risk categories to seek booster vaccines first.

“We are very confident that we have enough vaccine to meet the needs of individuals who meet the criteria for a booster, as vaccine capacity is now very different than it was when COVID-19 vaccines first became available. With that said, it may take some time to offer boosters to everyone who qualifies,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We are focusing intently on protecting Delaware’s most vulnerable and we encourage everyone to consider their own situation when heading out to receive their booster in the next few weeks.”

COVID-19 vaccine providers in Delaware may begin administering booster doses of Pifzer immediately or as soon as they are able. Members of the public who are eligible for a booster shot are recommended to seek vaccine at existing vaccine sites including pharmacies, health care providers, Federally Qualified Health Centers (for patients), and standing DPH Vaccine sites:

• Blue Hen Corporate Center: 655 S. Bay Road, Dover, DE 19901
• Georgetown Plaza: 19 Georgetown Plaza, Georgetown, DE 19947
• Canby Park: 1920 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, DE 19805
• University Plaza, 256 Chapman Road, Suite 100, Newark, DE 19702

“While making booster shots available is an important move, DPH’s focus continues to be getting more Delawareans fully vaccinated,” said Dr. Rattay. “With only half of the state’s population fully vaccinated, we still have a long way to go.”

As a reminder, Delawareans who have certain immunocompromising conditions including those who have received organ or stem cell transplants, are undergoing treatment for HIV or cancer, or who are taking medication that suppresses the immune system, are currently eligible to receive a “third dose” of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, if they completed their second dose at least 28 days prior.

DPH encourages providers to use their clinical judgement and to consider additional factors for their patients when determining if the person meets the qualifications for immunocompromised status and is eligible for a “third dose” of Pfizer or Moderna. These factors may include assessing patients who reside in a long-term care facility or patients of advanced age (especially those over age 85).

For a complete list of locations where vaccines are available, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

DOVER (SEPTEMBER 17, 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, September 16, 2021.

A total of 127,222 positive cases of COVID-19 among Delaware residents have been reported to DPH since March 11, 2020. The seven-day average of new positive cases increased to 472 as of Thursday, September 16, 2021.

As of Tuesday, September 14, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 8.4%, a decrease from 8.7% as of Tuesday, September 7. There is a two-day lag for presenting data related to percent of tests that are positive to account for the time delay between the date of the test and the date that DPH receives the test result.

In addition, 259 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, an increase of seven from last week. Forty-two of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, an increase of four from last week.

A total of 1,913 Delawareans have died due to complications from COVID-19. Thirteen deaths were reported in the past week, five of which were from a review of vital statistics. The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old.

FDA Advisory Committee Votes to Recommend Booster Doses for Certain Populations: 

Today, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) vaccine advisory committee met to discuss authorizing booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine for the general public. The committee voted unanimously to recommend expanding the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to allow booster doses of the Pfizer BioNTech mRNA vaccine for individuals age 65 and older, and individuals at high risk of severe COVID-19 starting six months or more after they received their second dose. Also included in the recommended EUA expansion are health care workers and others at high risk for occupational exposure. This announcement does not apply to individuals who received the Moderna or Johnson & Johnson vaccines initially, due to limited available data to support an expansion of the use of those vaccines. As in the past, the FDA is expected to formalize and quickly sign off on the committee’s recommendation.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) still needs to meet to provide final recommendations on specific criteria such as what constitutes high risk of severe COVID-19.  ACIP is scheduled to meet on Wednesday, September 22.  The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) will await those findings before moving forward with the Pfizer boosters for qualifying individuals.

“We are encouraged by this news and optimistic that a booster dose will increase protection for many Delawareans from severe COVID-19,” said DPH Director, Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We know the Delta variant is particularly contagious and vaccination is really our best chance at protecting ourselves. We look forward to ACIP’s recommendations.”

Once approved by ACIP, vaccine providers and the public will receive further information from DPH about who should receive a booster most immediately.  Qualifying individuals who previously received two doses of Pfizer, will be able to get a booster dose at a variety of sites, including participating medical provider, pharmacy, or DPH Standing Vaccine clinic at the Blue Hen Corporate Center, Georgetown Plaza, Canby Park in Wilmington or University Plaza in Newark.

As a reminder, Delawareans who have certain immunocompromising conditions including those who have received organ or stem cell transplants, are undergoing treatment for HIV or cancer, or who are taking medication that suppresses the immune system, are currently eligible to receive a third dose of either Pfizer or Moderna vaccines, if they completed their second dose at least 28 days prior. DPH is also encouraging providers to consider whether those who reside in long-term care facilities and seniors, especially those who are over age 85, should receive a third dose at this time.

If you have not yet been vaccinated and are eligible, know that vaccines are the best protection we have against COVID-19 and circulating variants. The science is clear that the vaccines are extremely safe and effective and Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection and serious illness. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine.

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 77.4% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. September 17, 2021, a total of 1,146,696 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 568,719 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 512,701 Delawareans are fully vaccinated. 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 September 6 – September 12. The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated. Vaccination continues to be the most important factor in reducing deaths and hospitalizations from COVID-19.

Breakthrough Cases: 

To date, 512,701 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 2,900 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately six-tenths of 1 percent of vaccinated individuals. Fifty-three of the reported breakthrough cases identified since vaccinations began involved hospitalizations and 31 individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID-19 was the cause of death. Breakthrough cases continue to be extremely rare given the total number of persons who are fully vaccinated, and the science is clear, the best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.

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 actually occurred after vaccination.

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:

As of Friday, September 17, the Division of Public Health has identified the following COVID-19 variants in Delaware through routine surveillance of test specimens. These variants are based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of Variants of Concern and Variants of Interest. The below table represents cumulative totals.

Variants of Concern
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	1008
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	64
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	797

 

Variants of Interest
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Eta/B.1.525	UK/Nigeria (formerly New York, US)	2
Iota/B.1.526/B.1526.1	New York, US	352

Of the test samples that were sequenced in the last week, 170 (73.9%) of the 230 test samples sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 74 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. All but one of the 244 variant positive samples this week were identified as the Delta variant strain. The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 4,505 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date.

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and is not used for diagnosing COVID-19 but is used after a positive case of COVID-19 has been identified for surveillance purposes, or in identifying the presence of a variant strain in the community.Because these variants may spread more easily, it is even more important that unvaccinated individuals who are more susceptible to getting COVID-19 continue taking the necessary ladders to avoid spreading the virus – wearing a mask, washing your hands, and being cautious when attending large gatherings.

For more information regarding CDC variant classifications, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html.

DPH COVID 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. Medically trained DNG staff are offering the Pfizer vaccine (for ages 12+) and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine (for persons 18+). These mobile units are visiting communities with low vaccination rates in an effort to eliminate potential barriers to access. 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, September 20

Bethel Villa, 499 Lombard Street, Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, September 21

Kohl’s, 299 North Dupont Highway, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Lowe’s, 1450 North Dupont Highway, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 22

Wilmington Farmers Market, 1000 N. Market St., Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Williams State Service Center, 805 River Road, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Williams State Service Center, 805 River Road, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Adams Four Shopping Center, Wilmington, 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 23

Dollar General, 701 North Porter Street, Seaford, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Bethel Market, 7743 Main Street, Bethel, 1:00 p.m.  3:00 p.m.

Friday, September 24

Brandywine Village, 99 East 19th Street, Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 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, Sept. 16, there have been a total of 2,884 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 840 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Symptoms and Testing:

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons to be aware of and self-monitor for the symptoms of COVID-19. DPH recommends that unvaccinated people get tested once a week.Even fully vaccinated persons should get tested if they develop symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

If you are sick with any of the following symptoms, stay home: fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, shaking with chills, loss of smell or taste, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, or headache or congestion or runny nose without a known cause such as allergies. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain or lack of appetite have been identified as potential symptoms related to COVID-19 and may prompt further screening, action or investigation by a primary care provider.

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

Questions related to business re-openings or operations as businesses re-open should go to COVID19FAQ@delaware.gov. Questions regarding unemployment claims should be emailed to: UIClaims@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.

 

DOVER (SEPTEMBER 10, 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, September 9, 2021.

A total of 123,958 positive cases of COVID-19 among Delaware residents have been reported to DPH since March 11, 2020. The seven-day average of new positive cases decreased to 389 as of Thursday, September 9, 2021. Delaware reported 665 new COVID-19 cases today, the highest number since January.

As of Tuesday, September 7, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 8.6%, an increase from 7.4% of Tuesday, August 31. There is a two-day lag for presenting data related to percent of tests that are positive to account for the time delay between the date of the test and the date that DPH receives the test result.

In addition, 252 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, an increase of 19 from last week. Thirty-eight of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, a decrease of 10 from last week.

A total of 1,900 Delawareans have died due to complications from COVID-19. Twelve deaths were reported in the past week, six of which were from a review of vital statistics. The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old.

DelVAX Public Access Portal:

Delawareans can now access their immunization record through the DelVAX Public Access Portal. Parents and legal guardians can print official immunization records for their child/children (ages 0 through 17 years), and adults (ages 18 years and over) can print an official immunization record for themselves. For information and link for the DelVAX Public Access Portal: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/ipp/portalflyer.pdf. DelVAX is the official record for a person’s vaccination data. Individuals who need assistance can call 1-800-282-8672, or email DelVAX@delaware.gov.

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 76.8% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. September 10, 2021, a total of 1,133,779 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 563,547 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 505,790 Delawareans are fully vaccinated. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.

Vaccines are the best protection we have against COVID-19 and circulating variants. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/covidvaccine.

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 August 30 – September 5. The report highlights the significant percentage of cases and hospitalized individuals in Delaware who are unvaccinated, or only partially vaccinated. Vaccination continues to be the most important factor in reducing deaths and hospitalizations from COVID-19.

Breakthrough Cases: 

To date, 505,790 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 2,307 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately five-tenths of 1 percent of vaccinated individuals. Fifty of the reported breakthrough cases identified since vaccinations began involved hospitalizations and 25 individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID-19 was the cause of death. Breakthrough cases continue to be extremely rare given the total number of persons who are fully vaccinated, and the science is clear, the best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.

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 actually occurred after vaccination.

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:

As of Friday, September 10, the Division of Public Health has identified the following COVID-19 variants in Delaware through routine surveillance of test specimens. These variants are based on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) list of Variants of Concern and Variants of Interest. The below table represents cumulative totals.

Variants of Concern
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	1007
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	63
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	554

 

 

 

Variants of Interest
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Eta/B.1.525	UK/Nigeria (formerly New York, US)	2
Iota/B.1.526/B.1526.1	New York, US	352

Of the test samples that were sequenced in the last week, 121 (72.9%) of the 166 test samples sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 27 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab, which were positive for a variant strain. Ninety-three percent of the 148 variant positive samples this week were identified as the Delta variant strain. The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 4,275 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date.

DPH is carefully tracking the Mu variant, technically known as B.1.621, which is not currently on the CDC list for variant of interest or concern. To date, Delaware has detected 18 cases of the Mu variant.

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and is not used for diagnosing COVID-19 but is used after a positive case of COVID-19 has been identified for surveillance purposes, or in identifying the presence of a variant strain in the community.Because these variants may spread more easily, it is even more important that unvaccinated individuals who are more susceptible to getting COVID-19 continue taking the necessary steps to avoid spreading the virus – wearing a mask, washing your hands, and being cautious when attending large gatherings.

The science is clear that the vaccines are extremely safe and effective even against variants – and Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection and serious illness. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated – de.gov/getmyvaccine.

For more information regarding CDC variant classifications, visit https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/cases-updates/variant-surveillance/variant-info.html.

DPH COVID 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. Medically trained DNG staff are offering the Pfizer vaccine (for ages 12+) and the Johnson & Johnson vaccine (for persons 18+). These mobile units are visiting communities with low vaccination rates in an effort to eliminate potential barriers to access. 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, September 13

New Galilee Church, Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Tuesday, September 14

Spence’s Bazaar & Auction, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Country Farms, Dover, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Wednesday, September 15

Byler’s Store, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Wawa, 200 East St, Camden, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Adams Four Shopping Center, Wilmington, 3:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 16

Seaford Mobile Gardens, Seaford, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Friday, September 17 

Kingswood Community Center, Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Sunday September 19

Maxima Hispanic Festival, Wilmington Riverfront, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 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, Sept. 9, there have been a total of 2,871 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 834 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.

Symptoms and Testing:

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons to be aware of and self-monitor for the symptoms of COVID-19. DPH recommends that unvaccinated people get tested once a week.Even fully vaccinated persons should get tested if they develop symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

If you are sick with any of the following symptoms, stay home: fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, chills, shaking with chills, loss of smell or taste, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, or headache or congestion or runny nose without a known cause such as allergies. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain or lack of appetite have been identified as potential symptoms related to COVID-19 and may prompt further screening, action or investigation by a primary care provider.

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

Questions related to business re-openings or operations as businesses re-open should go to COVID19FAQ@delaware.gov. Questions regarding unemployment claims should be emailed to: UIClaims@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.