Elected officials and health leaders worry that lagging red zone compliance, attributed in part to “pandemic fatigue,” is contributing to the startling increase in COVID-19 cases across the region.
Health experts are encouraging people to scale back holiday gatherings to just those in their immediate household, or to practice what epidemiologists call "harm reduction" if they choose to gather.
The CDC report says that mask mandates "can help avert future lockdowns," especially if combined with "social distancing, hand hygiene and adequate ventilation."
The senator noted that Kentucky had its highest-ever daily total of new cases, 2,700, and that the percentage of Kentuckians testing positive for the virus is the highest since early May at 8.12%.
The research teams say this stage of the trial means the vaccine has been through testing that makes it safer for broader use. Specifically, they're looking for people at high risk for the virus.
Business owners should plan to allow employees to work from home next week, if possible, and reschedule, postpone or cancel all events. Community members should not attend — or host — gatherings of any size. They are also asked to reduce in-person shopping and dining, avoid non-essential activities and prioritize businesses that enforce mask mandates and other safety measures.
