Humboldt County tracking 194 chains of transmission and several small outbreaks throughout the county, largely related to indoor gatherings

A total of 2,652 Humboldt County residents have tested positive for COVID-19, after 28 new cases were reported today. 

Humboldt County Public Health contact investigation teams are tracking 194 chains of transmission and several small outbreaks throughout the county, largely related to indoor gatherings. Local health officials say that cases have been reported in various settings, including workplaces and places of worship. Indoor gatherings are strongly discouraged by the state, and county residents are urged to follow all COVID-19 safety measures until vaccine supply allows for communitywide distribution. 

Public Health continues to vaccinate Phase 1A health care workers, with 320 appointments scheduled today and tomorrow. Many of those receiving vaccines are In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) and other caregivers who provide direct support to seniors and dependent adults. On Monday, more than 500 emergency services personnel were invited to schedule an appointment as part of Phase 1B Tier 1. While vaccinations for health care workers are ongoing, Public Health and local health care providers will expand appointments to other groups in Phase 1B Tier 1, including educators, as doses become available. 

All county residents who want to receive the COVID-19 vaccine can submit their contact information through an online interest form and be notified when an appointment is available for their priority group. A total of 9,150 county residents have submitted the form since its launch. Go to humboldtgov.org/InterestForm to complete the form. 

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) today announced that Humboldt County remains in the “Purple” or widespread tier under the “Blueprint for a Safer Economy,” with an adjusted case rate of 24.3 and a positivity rate of 6.8%. 

CDPH also is expected to announce a new plan for COVID-19 vaccine distribution statewide. More information on local impacts will be released as soon it becomes available.