Two individuals with the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of COVID-19 has been identified in St. Clair County as of 7/22/2021.
When a positive result is found, a small percentage of these samples are sent on for genetic sequencing to identify any variant strains. Therefore, it is very likely there are more unidentified cases of the Delta variant in St. Clair County.
Case #1: Individual in their 30’s; not vaccinated
Case #2: Individual in their 40’s; not vaccinated
“The Delta variant is more contagious and by the time it has been identified, an infected individual(s) may have already exposed many more people”, said Dr. Annette Mercatante, Medical Health Officer of the St. Clair County Health Department. Mercatante continued, “Less than 50% of our residents are fully vaccinated, making our population especially vulnerable to this variant. This will likely result in a surge/increase in serious cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. We strongly encourage those who have not been vaccinated yet to do so now. Additionally, cooperate (answer your phone, text, etc) with public health staff during contact tracing efforts so we can help control further spread.”
The St. Clair County Health Department is urging individuals to continue to take precautions against COVID 19, especially as new variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 to become more prevalent. Recommendations include:
∙ Get fully vaccinated
∙ Wear a mask around others if not vaccinated; especially in crowded indoor or outdoor areas ∙ Stay six feet apart from others if not vaccinated
∙ Wash hands often
∙ Stay home when you feel ill. Get tested if you have symptoms
∙ Ventilate indoor spaces
Vaccines are available at the St. Clair County Health Department and many other locations throughout the community. Schedule an appointment at www.scchealth.co or call (810) 987-5300; Email questions to the COVID-19 hotline covid19@stclaircounty.org or call (810) 966-4163.
Further updates will be shared on www.scchealth.co and social media @scchdmi.
Submitted by the St. Clair County Health Department
