CDC: Jackson among 9 Oregon counties at high COVID risk

Jun. 29—Based on community spread and hospitalization data over the past seven days, the Centers for Disease Control is advising that Southern Oregonians wear masks indoors in public and on public transportation.

Jackson County is among nine Oregon counties at high risk for community spread, joining Klamath, Lake, Douglas, Coos, Lane, Wasco, Hood River and Sherman counties, according to the CDC.

Over the previous week, Jackson County was averaging 231.28 new cases per 100,000 population, 11.4 new hospital admissions per 100,000 population and 4.8% of hospital beds containing confirmed COVID-19 patients, according to the CDC. Anything greater than 200 new cases per 100,000 people over seven days and more than 10 hospital admissions in a week indicates high community spread.

Jackson and Josephine counties share Oregon's Hospital Region No. 5.

Josephine County was at medium risk for COVID-19 community spread with 161.17 cases per 100,000 and the same 11.4 new hospital admissions per capita.

In Josephine County, the CDC recommends the community stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, get tested if they have symptoms, wear a mask if having symptoms, test positive or get exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Masks and additional precautions also are recommended indoors in medium-risk community spread areas for those at high risk for severe illness.