DOVER, DE (Dec. 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, Dec. 9, 2021. 

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 159,399
• 7-day average of new positive cases: 603.9, a significant increase from 432.9 last week 
• 7-day average for the percentage of total positive tests: 9.2%, an increase from 8% last week 
• Hospitalizations: 317, an increase of 51 from last week; critically ill: 33, an increase of one from last week 
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,211
• Total COVID-19 deaths reported since last week: 17

   

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,464,094
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who have received at least one dose (CDC data): 78.8%
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who have received at least one dose (CDC data): 84.6% 
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who received at least one dose (CDC data): 86.6%
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 62.6% 

 

Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection, serious illness and death. 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. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity. 

 

Expanded Eligibility for Vaccine Boosters:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday authorized booster doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for 16- and 17-year-olds, at least six months after receiving their second dose of the vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) endorsed the action soon after. DPH has advised medical providers that they may begin administering the Pfizer vaccine (12+/adult formula) as a booster to eligible 16- and 17-year-olds as soon as they are able.  These individuals are only able to receive Pfizer as a booster, and are not able to mix and match vaccines as those individuals 18 and older can do.

 

“Given rising cases pointing to a winter surge, the presence of the Delta variant and likelihood that we will see the Omicron variant in our state, we are grateful to have another tool at our disposal to increase protection for younger Delawareans,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay.  “We encourage anyone ages 5 and older who has not yet been vaccinated to get their first dose, for those who still need their second to schedule it, and for all those eligible for a booster vaccine to get one.”

 

Individuals 18 and older who received either Pfizer or Moderna are eligible for a booster dose of the vaccine at least six months after being fully vaccinated.  Those who received the J&J vaccine are eligible for a booster two months after their vaccination. Persons 18 and older may choose from any of the three FDA authorized vaccines as their booster, regardless of the brand they originally received. 

 

Evidence from clinical studies show that boosters do not merely top off immunity, but elevate protection well beyond peak levels from the primary series. Some experts say the elevated levels of protection can be as high as 95%. The same study showed an 85% reduction in hospitalization, 76% reduction in severe disease, and 94% reduction in deaths in those who received a booster dose. COVID-19 vaccines continue to be very effective when it comes to preventing hospitalization and death, but effectiveness against getting the virus may decline over time.  Boosters also increase the strength of your antibody response, so when the virus mutates, a booster makes it more likely that your antibodies can protect you against the new variant. Visit de.gov/boosters for more information.

 

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 Nov. 29 – Dec. 5. The report highlights the significant percentage of unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated individuals comprising Delaware’s cases and hospitalizations. 

 

Weekly Overview (11/29 -12/5)
Unvaccinated Cases
Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	2883
Total Cases	3985
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	72%
Hospitalizations
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	117
Total Hospitalized Cases	169
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	69%
Deaths
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	13
Total COVID-19 Deaths	15
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	87%

 

 

 Breakthrough Cases (cumulative since vaccinations began): 

• Total breakthrough cases: 8,341 or 1.5% of fully vaccinated individuals 
• Total breakthrough hospitalizations: 132
• Total breakthrough deaths: 102

 

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:  

In the last week, 445 test samples were sequenced through routine surveillance of test specimens. Of those test samples, 248 (55.7%) sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 26 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. Out of the 274 variant positive samples, all were identified as the Delta strain.

 

DPH continues to monitor the science around the new Omicron variant, which has been classified as a Variant of Concern by both the World Health Organization and CDC. This variant was first reported in South Africa and has since been detected in at least 40 countries and 21 states in the U.S. No cases of this variant have been identified in Delaware to date. The Delaware Public Health Laboratory regularly monitors for the presence of COVID-19 variants, including Omicron, through routine sequencing of test specimens.  

DPH COVID-19 Vaccine Mobile Units: 

DPH officials in partnership with medical staff from the Delaware National Guard (DNG) have mobile units that 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. COVID-19 testing will be available at each location. The mobile units in New Castle County will travel through specific neighborhoods and a community intervention team will canvas door to door to offer vaccination and testing services to residents. These specific events are indicated below with the note (door to door). 

 

Monday, Dec. 13

Urban Promise Academy, 2401 Thatcher St., Wilmington, 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Wawa Camden, 200 East St., Camden, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Linkside Apartments, 35 Flagstick Lane, Magnolia, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Bethel Market, 7743 Main St., Bethel, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Café Tamburelli’s, 3 Market St., Greenwood, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

 

Tuesday, Dec. 14

DeLaWarr State Service Center, 500 Rogers Road, New Castle, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Smyrna State Service Center, 200 S. DuPont Blvd., Smyrna, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Laurel State Service Center, 31039 North Poplar St., Laurel, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Mt. Olivet United Methodist Church, 315 High St., Seaford, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, Dec. 15

Wilmington’s Northside neighborhood (door to door), starting at North Claymont Street, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, 1131 N. DuPont Hwy., Dover, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Wawa, 1450 Forrest Ave., Dover, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Greenwood Public Library, 100 Mill St., Greenwood, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, Dec. 16

Appoquinimink State Service Center, 122 Silver Lake Road, Middletown, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Donald J. Richey Elementary School, 105 E. Highland Ave., Wilmington, 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Laurel State Service Center, 31039 North Poplar St., Laurel, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Smyrna State Service Center, 200 S. DuPont Blvd., Smyrna, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

Davelli’s Bagel Café, 201 W. Stein Hwy., Seaford, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Friday, Dec. 17

Wilmington’s Browntown/Hedgeville neighborhood (door to door), starting at 900 block of Maryland Avenue, Wilmington, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Service General Laundromat, 801 Norman Eskidge Hwy., Seaford, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 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, Dec. 9, there have been a total of 3,017 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 869 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19. 

 

Flu Update:

Flu cases are increasing in Delaware, with 84 cases reported in the most recent week.  As of Dec. 4, 2021, the most recent date for which flu statistics are available, there have been 125 laboratory-confirmed cases for the current season. The cases involved 79 individuals from New Castle County, 12 from Kent County and 34 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.

 

Now is the time to get vaccinated against the flu if you 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. 

 

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, August 26, 2021.   

   

A total of 118,544 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 354.1 as of Thursday, August 26, 2021.   

   

As of Tuesday, August 24, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 7.5%, a decrease from 7.8% as of Tuesday, August 17. 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, 210 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, an increase of 45 from last week. Thirty-four of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, an increase of five from last week.   

  

A total of 1,875 Delawareans have passed away due to complications from COVID-19. Twenty-four deaths were reported in the past week, nine 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. Of those who have died, 951 were female and 924 were male. A total of 931 individuals were from New Castle County, 388 were from Kent County, and 556 were from Sussex County.  

  

FDA Approves Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine for Individuals 16 and Older:

On Monday, August 23, 2021, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) announced that it has approved the COVID-19 Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine biologics license application (BLA) for individuals 16+. It is the first of the three available COVID-19 vaccines to receive official approval from the FDA. Previously, the vaccine was being distributed only under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA). The Pfizer vaccine has since been subject to an exhaustive independent review by FDA scientists – including an additional eight months of safety data and follow up with vaccine recipients, leading the FDA to grant approval. With full approval for a COVID-19 vaccine, the public can be even more confident that the COVID-19 vaccines work and are safe.

 

The vaccine also continues to be available under emergency use authorization (EUA), including for individuals 12 through 15 years of age and for the administration of a third dose in certain immunocompromised individuals. While there is not yet enough data to include 12-to-15-year-olds or the immunocompromised who want a third dose under the full approval, this does not mean the vaccine is not safe for these individuals. They are still eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine under the existing Emergency Use Authorization, which remains in effect.

 

The FDA approval of the Pfizer vaccine includes a name change for the vaccine to COMIRNATY. It is the same vaccine and the same dosage; only the name has changed. 

 

COVID-19 Vaccinations:   

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 75.6% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. August 27, 2021, a total of 1,109,421 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 554,201 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 492,758 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 16 – August 22. 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, 492,758 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 1,544 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately three-tenths of 1 percent of vaccinated individuals. Forty-three of the reported breakthrough cases identified since vaccinations began involved hospitalizations and 21 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, August 27, 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 CDC recently removed Epsilon/B.1.427 and Epsilon/B.1.429 from the Variants of Interest list. As a result, we have removed them from the below chart.

 

Of the tests samples that were sequenced, 68% percent of the 139 test samples sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 20 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. This brings the total of variant positive samples to 114 for the week. Ninety-seven percent were identified as the Delta variant strain.

 

Variants of Concern				Variants of Interest
Variant	Origin	# of Cases		Variant	Origin	# of Cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	1007		Eta/B.1.525	UK/Nigeria (formerly NEW York, US)	2
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1		Iota/B.1.526	New York, US	272
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	63		Epsilon/B.1.427	California, US	10
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	255		Epslion/B.1.429	California, US	11

 

 

The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 3,880 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date. In aggregate, the cases include 1,376 adults ranging in age from 18-98, as well as 282 individuals under the age of 18. One thousand two hundred and twenty-seven individuals were from New Castle County, 223 were from Kent County and 208 were from Sussex County.    

 

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and is not used for diagnosing COVID-19. It 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. When variant strains are identified, public health approaches and treatments do not currently change. 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. We would encourage all Delawareans to 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, August 30

           Merchants Square, Wilmington, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

 

Tuesday, August 31  

Carroll’s Plaza Laundromat, Dover, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  

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

Lady Bug Festival, Market Street, Wilmington 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, September 1  

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

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

 

Thursday, September 2  

Rainbow Pediatrics, Georgetown, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.  

Rainbow Pediatrics, Georgetown, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.  

 

Friday, Sepember 3 

Edna C. Dickey Park, Newark, 10 a.m. – 2 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, August 26, there have been a total of 2,848 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 830 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.   

  

DPH Encourages Testing After Participating in Large Gatherings and Events:  

Given the significant increase in recent COVID-19 cases and the large number of gatherings and events that traditionally take place this month, it is recommended that individuals get tested if they have attended a large public gathering such as a concert, community-based event, or any such event where social distancing was not possible and the vaccination status of others is unknown. You should also get tested if you attended gatherings such as birthday parties, off-to-college parties, or weddings where people were in close contact and you were unable to confirm vaccination status of those around you, especially if the gatherings were indoors. A list of testing locations can be found at de.gov/gettested. Additionally, at-home test options are listed on the site, including take-home COVID-19 test kits available at Delaware Libraries. These rapid antigen test kits produce results in as little as 15 minutes and can be kept at home if someone develops symptoms. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, do not come to a library for a test kit.  

 

Symptoms and Testing: 

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons, to be aware of, and self-monitor for, the symptoms of COVID-19.  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 (AUGUST 6, 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, August 5, 2021.  

 

A total of 112,298 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 147.1 as of Thursday, August 5, 2021.  

 

As of Tuesday, August 3, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 4.6% an increase from 3.6% as of Tuesday, July 27. 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, 71 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, an increase of 39 from last week. Eight of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, an increase of five from last week.  

 

A total of 1,833 Delawareans have passed away due to complications from COVID-19. No deaths were reported in the last week. The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old. Of those who have died, 928 were female and 905 were male. A total of 906 individuals were from New Castle County, 382 were from Kent County, and 545 were from Sussex County. 

 

COVID-19 Vaccinations:  

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 73.2% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. August 5, 2021, a total of 1,067,747 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 534,132 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 474,050 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 the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/covidvaccine.  

 

DPH COVID Vaccine Mobile Units: 

DPH 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. 

 

Monday, August 9 

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 

Beaver Brook Shopping Center, New Castle, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. 

 

Tuesday, August 10 

First Responder Night, Milford, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. 

 

Wednesday, August 11 

Kirkwood Park, Wilmington, 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 

 

Thursday, August 12 

Laurel Senior Center, Laurel, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 

Save A Lot, Seaford, 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. 

 

Friday, August 13 

Adams Four Shopping Center, Wilmington, 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

 

Saturday, August 14 

Edna C. Dickey Park, Newark, 10:00 p.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. 

 

Take-Home COVID-19 Test Kits at Delaware Libraries: 

 

Delawareans now can pick up a free COVID-19 rapid antigen test kit from a Delaware library location statewide (kits not available in Greenwood) to keep at home. These test kits can give you peace of mind in case you, a family member, or another household member develop COVID-19 symptoms and need quick results, which are available in as little as 15 minutes.  Library cards are not required to pick up a take-home test kit, but you can apply for one while there, and take advantage of other library services at the same time. If you have symptoms of COVID-19, do not come to a library for a test kit. Instead, visit one of the other fixed or community testing locations listed at de.gov/gettested. 

 

 

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware 

As of Friday, August 6, 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. Forty-one percent of the test results sequenced over the last week were positive for a variant strain of COVID-19.  Of the 27 variant-positive samples, the Delta variant was the predominant variant making up 89% of the variant strains.  

Variants of Concern
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	991
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	63
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	80

 

 

 

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	329
Epsilon/B.1.427	California, US	10
Epsilon/B.1.429	California, US	11

 

The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 3,557 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date, including 58 within the past week. In aggregate, the cases included 1,222 adults ranging in age from 18-98, as well as 265 individuals under the age of 18. The cases involved 1,117 individuals from New Castle County, 190 from Kent County and 180 from Sussex County. 

 

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and not used for diagnosing COVID-19. It 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. When variant strains are identified, public health approaches and treatments do not currently change. But 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. We would encourage all Delawareans to 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. 

 

Breakthrough Cases 

Vaccination significantly reduces the chance to developing COVID-19 or becoming seriously ill from it. To date, 474,050 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated.Of those, there have been 718 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately 0.1 percent of vaccinated individuals. 

 

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. Twenty-eight of the reported breakthrough cases involved hospitalizations and nine individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID was the cause of death. Breakthrough cases are extremely rare, and the science is clear, the best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.  

  

Long-term Care Statistics 

As of 6:00 p.m. Thursday, August 5, there have been a total of 2,789 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 825 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.  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.  

 

Information about testing events, including community testing sites, permanent fixed testing sites, and free-standing sites operated by the health care systems and hospitals, are listed on the testing section of the Delaware coronavirus website at de.gov/gettested 

 

DPH reminds Delawareans that if you believe you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or have symptoms of illness, make sure to distance yourself from others, particularly vulnerable populations. Older adults and people of any age with serious underlying medical conditions – including serious heart conditions, chronic lung conditions, including moderate to severe asthma, severe obesity and those who are immunocompromised, including through cancer treatment – may have a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19. 

 

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 (July 30, 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, July 29, 2021.

 

A total of 111,275 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 89.9 as of Thursday, July 29.

 

As of Tuesday, July 27, the seven-day average for the percentage of total tests that were positive was 3.5%, an increase from 2.5% as of Tuesday, July 20. 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, 32 individuals are currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 in Delaware, a decrease of four from last week. Three of the hospitalized persons are critically ill, a decrease of one from last week.

 

A total of 1,830 Delawareans have passed away due to complications from COVID-19. One hundred thirty-two deaths were reported in the last week, including 130 from a review of death certificate records from the Delaware Vital Events Registration System (DelVERS). The 130 additional COVID-19 deaths occurred between mid-May 2020 and late June 2021. Of the 130 deaths, 128 were not fully vaccinated, and of the two newly reported deaths, both were not fully vaccinated.  The total number of individuals who have died from COVID-19 range in age from younger than 5 to 104 years old. Of those who have died, 927 were female and 903 were male. A total of 903 individuals were from New Castle County, 382 were from Kent County, and 545 were from Sussex County.

 

COVID-19 Vaccinations:

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 72.3% of Delawareans ages 18+ have received at least one dose of the vaccine. As of 12:01 a.m. July 30, a total of 1,055,977 administered doses of the COVID-19 vaccine have been reported to the state’s immunization information system, DelVAX. Among Delawareans 12+, 527,185 have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 469,873 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 the COVID-19 vaccine and the vaccination rollout in Delaware, visit de.gov/covidvaccine.

 

DPH COVID Vaccine Mobile Units:

DPH 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 J&J 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.

 

Monday, August 2

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

Tuesday, August 3

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

Wednesday, August 4

Jazz Festival, Wilmington, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, August 5

Jazz Festival, Wilmington, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

Friday, August 6

Jazz Festival, Wilmington, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

North Dover Elementary, Dover, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 

Saturday, August 7

Jazz Festival, Wilmington, 12:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Peace on The Streets, Wilmington 10 a.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.

 

Update on COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware

As of Friday, July 30, 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. Thirty-five percent of the test results sequenced over the last week were positive for a variant strain of COVID-19.  Of the 47 variant-positive samples, the Delta variant was the predominant variant making up 51% of the variant strains.

Variants of Concern
Variant	Origin	# of cases
Alpha/B.1.1.7	United Kingdom	989
Beta/B.1.351	South Africa	1
Gamma/P.1	Brazil	63
Delta/B.1.617.2	India	55

 

 

 

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	329
Epsilon/B.1.427	California, US	10
Epsilon/B.1.429	California, US	11

 

The Delaware Public Health Laboratory has sequenced 3,499 specimens for COVID-19 variant strains to date, including 136  within the past week. In aggregate, the cases include 1,197 adults ranging in age from 18- 98, as well as 263 individuals under the age of 18. One thousand and ninety-eight individuals were from New Castle County, 188 were from Kent County and 174 were from Sussex County.

 

Virus mutation is common. Sequencing for variants is a complex process and not used for diagnosing COVID-19. It 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. When variant strains are identified, public health approaches and treatments do not currently change. But 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. We would encourage all Delawareans to 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.

 

Breakthrough Cases

Vaccination significantly reduces the chance to developing COVID-19 or becoming seriously ill from it. To date, 469,873 Delawareans have been fully vaccinated. Of those, there have been 567 breakthrough cases of COVID-19, occurring in approximately .1 percent of vaccinated individuals.

 

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. Twenty-two of the reported breakthrough cases involved hospitalizations, eight individuals passed away, although it does not mean COVID was the cause of death. Breakthrough cases are extremely rare, and the science is clear, the best way to prevent serious illness from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated.

                                                                          

Long-term Care Statistics

As of 6:00 p.m. Thursday, July 29, there have been a total of 2,785 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 825 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19. This is an increase of 65 due to the review of death certificate records from the Delaware Vital Events Registration System (DelVERS) reported today. The deaths occurred between mid-May 2020 and late June 2021.

 

Symptoms and Testing

It’s especially important for unvaccinated persons, to be aware of, and self-monitor for, the symptoms of COVID-19.  Even fully vaccinated persons should get tested if they develop symptoms. 

 

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.

 

Information about testing events, including community testing sites, permanent fixed testing sites, and free-standing sites operated by the health care systems and hospitals, are listed on the testing section of the Delaware coronavirus website at de.gov/gettested

  

DPH reminds Delawareans that if you believe you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or have symptoms of illness, make sure to distance yourself from others, particularly vulnerable populations. Older adults and people of any age with serious underlying medical conditions – including serious heart conditions, chronic lung conditions, including moderate to severe asthma, severe obesity and those who are immunocompromised, including through cancer treatment – may have a higher risk for severe illness from COVID-19.

  

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.