DOVER, DE (May 21, 2022) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) reports an increase in COVID-19 cases since the previous monthly COVID-19 update released on April 22, 2022. While COVID-19 cases are increasing in Delaware, hospitalizations and deaths remain significantly lower when compared to the winter surge. DPH continues to encourage Delawareans to get tested if they exhibit symptoms of COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who tested positive. Although there are no Delaware or federal government mask mandates, individuals are encouraged to mask in public indoor areas in Delaware. Delawareans are also reminded to get boosted to increase their individual protection against COVID-19. Staying up to date with your vaccinations is the best way to ensure your body is prepared to fight against severe cases of COVID-19.

You are eligible for a booster dose if you:

• Are 5+ and it has been 5 months after your second dose of Pfizer
• Are 18+ and it has been 5 months after second dose of Moderna
• Are 18+ and it has been 2 months since your initial dose of Johnson & Johnson
• Qualified for an “additional/fourth” dose of Pfizer or Moderna because you have certain immunocompromising conditions or are age 50 and older. You can get your booster (fourth) dose 6 months after receiving your additional/third dose
• Follow https://coronavirus.delaware.gov/vaccine/where-can-i-get-my-vaccine/#publichealth for locations to receive booster shots

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations:

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 271,294
• 7-day daily average of new positive cases: 574.7, a difference of 417.6 average new positive cases reported since April 22, 2022
• 7-day daily average for the percentage of total positive tests: 19.0 percentage points, a difference of 11.4 percentage points reported since April 22, 2022
• Hospitalizations: 127, current hospitalizations; critically ill: 13
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,939 an increase of 43 since last month
• Total COVID-19 deaths reported since April 22, 2022: 43 deaths; 9 regularly reported deaths, 34 deaths from a review of vital statistics

COVID-19 Vaccinations:  

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,805,255 
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 73.6% 
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 77.8%  
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 79.3% 
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 69.5%  

All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For a location near you, visit de.gov/getmyvaccine. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at de.gov/healthycommunity.  

  

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:  

The following reports capture a weekly breakdown of non-boosted cases, deaths, and hospitalizations for the time frame of May 09 – May 15, 2022. 

 

Weekly Overview (05/09/22 – 05/15/22)
Non-boosted Cases
Total Non-boosted Cases	2406
Total Cases	3464
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	69%
Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases
Total Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases	127
Total Hospitalized Cases	179
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	71%
Non-boosted Deaths
Total Non-boosted Deaths	3
Total COVID-19 Deaths	5
Percent of Non-boosted Deaths	60%

 

Long-term Care Statistics:  

As of Thursday, May 19, 2022, there have been a total of 3,890 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 956 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19.  

Flu Update: 

DPH reminds the public that flu season is not over.  There were 126 laboratory-confirmed cases reported the week of May 8-May 14. As of May 20, 2022, the most recent date for which flu statistics are available. There have been 2,341 laboratory-confirmed cases for the current season, an increase of 633 since April 22, 2022. The cases involved 1,103 individuals from New Castle County, 518 from Kent County and 720 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. There may be technical discrepancies in reporting numbers week to week due to retroactive reporting of cases.

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

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

Resources:  

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

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

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Get tested if: 

§ You have symptoms. 

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

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

COVID-19 Cases and Hospitalizations: 

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

COVID-19 Vaccinations:  

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

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

COVID-19 Case Vaccination Status Report:   

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

Weekly Overview (1/17/22 – 1/23/22)
Unvaccinated Cases
Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	6614
Total Cases	11661
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	57%
Hospitalizations
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized Cases	183
Total Hospitalized Cases	292
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized Cases	63%
Deaths
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	24
Total COVID-19 Deaths	40
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	60%
Weekly Overview (1/17/22 – 1/23/22)
Non-boosted Cases
Total Non-boosted Cases	10021
Total Cases	11661
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	86%
Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases
Total Non-boosted Hospitalized Cases	258
Total Hospitalized Cases	292
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	88%
Non-boosted Deaths
Total Non-boosted Deaths	33
Total COVID-19 Deaths	40
Percent of Non-boosted Cases	83%

 

  

Breakthrough Cases (cumulative since vaccinations began): 

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

 

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

COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:   

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

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

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

Long-term Care Statistics:  

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

Flu Update:

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

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

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

Resources:  

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

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

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.  

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

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

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

  

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

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

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DOVER, DE (Dec. 17, 2021) – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) today announced that it has confirmed the first four cases of the Omicron variant (B.1.1.529) among Delaware residents. The variant was detected today through routine sequencing of test specimens by the Delaware Public Health Laboratory.

The four cases involve two adults in their 30s, a teenager and a child under the age of 10, all residents of New Castle County. Two individuals were fully vaccinated and two were unvaccinated. None of the individuals had a known history of travel. Case investigation and contact tracing to identify, inform and monitor anyone who was in close contact with these individuals is ongoing.

The Omicron variant has been classified as a Variant of Concern by both the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This variant was first reported in South Africa and has since been detected in more than 70 countries and at least 35 states, including Delaware, in the United States. Virus mutations are common. Preliminary data suggests the Omicron variant may spread more easily and quickly than previous variant strains of the virus.

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

“With cases of the Omicron variant detected in our surrounding states, it was only a matter of time until we detected this variant in Delaware,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We are closely watching the science around this new variant. While it is encouraging that most individuals infected with this strain have reported minor symptoms, we still have a lot more to learn about Omicron. Therefore, we need to do what we know works to combat all strains of COVID-19: get vaccinated, get tested when appropriate, wear a mask in indoor public settings, socially distance from others and wash your hands regularly.”

Dr. Rattay said boosters may play a significant role in fighting the variant. Early results from both Pfizer and Moderna are pointing to booster doses being much more effective against the Omicron variant than having two doses alone. However, Pfizer is showing up to 70% effectiveness against serious illness leading to hospitalization after just two doses of the vaccine.

DPH has seen a significant rise in new positive cases over the past month, indicating a winter surge. Delta remains the dominant strain circulating in Delaware and the United States.

“While rising cases are a significant cause for concern, the public should understand that we have the public health tools in our toolbox to continue to fight this virus,” said Rattay. “Our data continue to show that new positive cases and hospitalizations are predominantly occurring among those who are unvaccinated. Vaccines remain the most critical tool to protect us against severe disease.”

Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection, serious illness and death. Delawareans who are 5 years and older who have not received the vaccine should do so as soon as possible. This is especially important for the youngest eligible Delawareans, as they currently have the highest COVID-19 case rates. Visit de.gov/getmyvaccine for a list of vaccine locations.

DPH also encourages those who have been vaccinated with at least one dose to complete the full vaccination series and everyone 16 and older should receive a booster dose when eligible. Boosters increase the strength of your antibody response to protect you from the virus, and many of its mutations. All adults who completed a primary vaccination series with an mRNA vaccine at least six months ago and those who received a Johnson & Johnson shot at least two months ago are eligible for a booster. For more information about booster doses of the COVID-19 vaccine, visit de.gov/boosters.

For the latest information on the COVID-19, visit de.gov/coronavirus.

 

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

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

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. 

 

DOVER, DE (Dec. 3, 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. 2, 2021. 

• Total positive cases since March 11, 2020: 155,149
• 7-day average of new positive cases: 432.7, an increase from 377.6 last week 
• 7-day average for the percentage of total positive tests: 8.3%, an increase from 7.1% last week 
• Hospitalizations: 266, an increase of 107 from last week; critically ill: 32, an increase of 12 from last week 
• Total COVID-19 deaths: 2,194
• Total COVID-19 deaths reported since last week: 21, including nine from a review of vital statistics records.

 

Scam Alert:

DPH is making the public aware of a scam targeting Delaware residents. This scam is in the form of a text message indicating that you are required to validate your vaccination or testing status. The link will take you to a site that requests you enter personal information. This is not a valid website and the request is fraudulent. This text message may be sent from a variety of spoofed numbers. As a reminder, DPH and other state agencies will not ask for private information, such as Social Security number or driver’s license number, in this manner. If you receive such a message, do not respond. Individuals are advised NOT to click on any links included in text messages and/or emails unless you are certain they are valid. 

  

COVID-19 Vaccinations: 

• Total number of doses administered in Delaware: 1,424,415
• Percentage of Delawareans 5+ who have received at least one dose (CDC data): 77.7%
• Percentage of Delawareans 12+ who have received at least one dose (CDC data): 83.7% 
• Percentage of Delawareans 18+ who received at least one dose (CDC data): 85.6%
• Percent of Delawareans who are fully vaccinated (CDC data): 61.8% 

 

Delawareans who are fully vaccinated have significant protection from COVID-19 infection, serious illness and death. All qualifying Delawareans should get vaccinated. For the latest information on the COVID-19 vaccine in Delaware, visit [de.gov/getmyvaccine]de.gov/getmyvaccine. Delaware’s latest COVID-19 vaccination statistics can be found under the Vaccine Tracker dashboard at [de.gov/healthycommunity]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 Nov. 22 – Nov. 28. The report highlights the significant percentage of unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated individuals comprising Delaware’s cases and hospitalizations. 

 

Weekly Overview (11/22 -11/28)
Unvaccinated Cases
Total Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	1667
Total Cases	2306
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Cases	72%
Hospitalizations
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	91
Total Hospitalized Cases	114
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated Hospitalized  Cases	80%
Deaths
Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	8
Total COVID-19 Deaths	10
Percent of Unvaccinated / Partially Vaccinated COVID-19 Deaths	80%

 

 Breakthrough Cases (cumulative since vaccinations began): 

• Total breakthrough cases: 7,633 or 1.4% of fully vaccinated individuals 
• Total breakthrough hospitalizations: 127
• Total breakthrough deaths: 98

 

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

 

COVID-19 Variant Cases in Delaware:  

In the last week, 91 test samples were sequenced through routine surveillance of test specimens. Of those test samples, 61 (67%) sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were four additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. Out of the 65 variant positive samples, all were identified as the Delta strain.

 

Due to a technical issue, last week’s sequencing report could not be provided in the Nov. 26 weekly COVID-19 update. Between Nov. 20 and Nov. 26, 359 test samples were sequenced through routine surveillance of test specimens. Of those test samples, 184 (51.3%) sequenced at the DPH Lab were positive for a variant strain, as were 33 additional specimens sequenced at an outside lab. Out of the 217 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 several other countries and a handful of states, including Pennsylvania, 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.

While we still have more to learn about the Omicron variant, Delawareans should continue doing what we know works: get vaccinated, wear a mask in indoor public settings, socially distance from others and wash your hands regularly. Vaccines remain the most critical tool to protect us against severe disease. Delawareans who are 5 years and older who have not received the vaccine should do so as soon as possible. This is especially important for our youngest eligible Delawareans, as they currently have the highest COVID-19 case rates.

 

DPH also encourages those who have been vaccinated with at least one dose to complete the full vaccination series and every adult should receive a booster dose when eligible. Boosters increase the strength of your antibody response to protect you from the virus, and many of its mutations. All adults who completed a primary vaccination series with an mRNA vaccine at least six months ago and those who received a Johnson & Johnson shot at least two months ago are eligible for a booster.

 

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.

 

Monday, Dec. 6

Wilmington’s North Side neighborhood, starting at North Claymont Street, 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Laurel Junction, 10912 County Seat Hwy., Laurel, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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

ILC Dover, 1 Moonwalker Road, Frederica, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

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

 

Tuesday, Dec. 7

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. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.  

 

Wednesday, Dec. 8
Goodwill Job Resource Center, 300 East Lea Blvd., Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

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

Service General Laundromat, 801 Norman Eskridge Hwy., Seaford, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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

Byler’s Harrington, 1 Liberty Plaza, Harrington, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

 

Thursday, Dec. 9

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

Laurel State Service Center, 10912 County Seat Hwy., Laurel, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

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

Dover Housing Authority, 76 Stevenson Drive, Dover, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

 

Friday, Dec. 10

Wilmington’s Browntown/Hedgeville neighborhood, 1100 Maryland Ave., Wilmington, 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

 

Saturday, Dec. 11

Route 9 Library, 3022 New Castle Ave., New Castle, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 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. 2, there have been a total of 3,002 positive COVID-19 cases involving long-term care residents, and 868 residents of Delaware long-term care facilities have died from complications related to COVID-19. 

 

Resources: 

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

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

Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

 

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

 

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

 

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