SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. - On Tuesday during Governor John Carney’s weekly press briefing, Dr. Karyl Rattay revealed new areas of concern include Western Sussex, Bethany Beach, and Fenwick Island.
The Division of Public Health wants to increase testing in the western Sussex area, and is encouraging Bethany and Fenwick residents to get tested.
"That is in an area of our state that hadn't really seen an uptick until now...no specific reason why we have higher numbers in that area. We do know when we look at our contact tracing some of the risk factors we're seeing is gatherings,” said Dr. Rattay.
Now more than 24,000 cases across the state, the biggest increase is being seen in young adults, 18 to 34 years old. The rate at which cases are increasing within this demographic is more than any other age group.
"That’s a group we want to communicate too and get the message out they need to be more careful and follow the protective measures,” said Governor John Carney.
Carney also pointed out where Delaware compares to other states when it comes to wearing masks. The Washington Post reports fewer COVID-19 symptoms are reported in states where more people wear face coverings.
"Delaware is down there with about 95% of people say they were masks outside, and only 20 percent of them say they know someone who has tested positive,” said the governor.
Dr. Karyl Rattay also discussed measures to reduce COVID-19 exposure at the polls.
"It was clear that we needed some more training for poll workers, on what to do if someone comes with symptoms and how to safely handle the situation,” she said.
Over 500,000 tests have been administered since April.
DEMA Director, AJ Schall offered a quick overview of monthly testing in Delaware during Tuesday's briefing. "We will probably close the month around 110,000 to 112,000 tests, so I think that's going to be our new high watermark,” he said.
So far results are received an average of 30.5 hours from collection at Curative testing sites, but the state says the goal is 24 hours.
With Halloween coming up, the governor announced a virtual costume contest. All you have to do is post with the hashtag #SAFEHALLOWEENDE for a chance to be re-posted by the governor's social media accounts.
