Wrangell currently has two active cases of COVID-19 in the community. As of today, the total case count for the state of Alaska is 38,708 cases. That’s an increase of 4,911 cases from last week. As of today, 831 people have required hospitalization. That includes 78 new hospitalizations over the last week. And as of today, 121 people have died. Twenty-eight of those deaths have occurred during the last week. For more information, you can visit the COVID-19 data hub here. For local case information and resources, you can visit wrangellcovid19.org.
Community spread continues throughout the state. The Wrangell EOC is encouraging Wrangellites to limit the number of places you visit during the week, to wear a mask when in the presence of others outside of your household, even when you are six feet apart, to delay unnecessary travel, stay home if you are sick, and keep washing your hands.
Travel is currently considered a high risk activity. Last week around one in 16 passengers tested after arriving in Alaska airports from out of state were positive with the virus causing COVID-19. If you have questions about travel, please continue to send them to travel@wrangell.com.
Community asymptomatic testing is available on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the SEARHC clinic parking lot. SEARHC will discontinue the free asymptomatic testing program consortium-wide on December 19, in response to the surge of positive cases within the state and the region.
The Department of Health and Social Services, the Alaska Regional Hospital, and the Alaska State Hospital and Nursing Home Association is hosting a statewide event called “Bring Back the Light 2020.” During this pandemic Alaskans have shown considerable strength to adapt and take care of themselves and each other. During bring “Bring Back the Light 2020,” Alaskans will come together to show support and gratitude for one another and our communities, take pride in our resiliency, and look forward to brighter days ahead. On Sunday, December 20, you can step outside with others in your household and light a candle or turn on lights, flashlights, headlamps, or lantern. Choose a place where you can be safe and comfortable together, but safely apart. Let’s bring back the light. Let’s celebrate the returning light and pending arrival of COVID-19 vaccines. Let’s express gratitude for our frontline workers, family, friends, teachers, local business owners, community neighbors and the beauty of Alaska. Let’s remember those who have lost their lives, their families and loved ones and everyone who has suffered losses during the pandemic. For ideas on how to create your own ice luminaries, or for more information, you can visit the City and Borough of Wrangell’s Facebook page.
