COVID-19 Corona Virus - How You Can Prepare

May 5, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Ashley Sever
Public Affairs Manager
720-431-6057
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nikki Work
Sr. Public Affairs Coordinator, Media Lead
720-431-6071
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JCPH Releases Updated Mask Order, Aligns with the State on Requirements

Jefferson County, Colo. –This week, Governor Jared Polis extended the State mask order that allows for fewer restrictions on mask-wearing in certain circumstances. In an effort to keep regulations uniform across the Denver Metro Area, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) will update and renew its current mask order ( PHO 20-008 ), which is set to expire May 5, 2021, to align with the state’s order. JCPH’s amended order is effective May 5, 2021 and, until further notice, is set to expire or be updated on June 6, 2021.

“The changes to the mask order are just one example of how far we’ve come in this fight against COVID-19. The increase in numbers of individuals vaccinated is very encouraging,” said Dr. Dawn Comstock, Executive Director of JCPH. “Still, we know that we’re not yet out of the woods, and it’s important to remember that if you are in a situation in which disease transmission is more likely, masking is strongly recommended. Understand your personal level of risk and keep your mask in your pocket, purse, or otherwise handy so you can wear it when needed and remove it when it’s safe.”

Individuals are encouraged to socialize in outdoor spaces when possible as outdoor gatherings are safer than indoor gatherings.Masks are not required in outdoor spaces.

Key changes to the order include:

• Masks are required in public indoor settings where 10 or more unvaccinated individuals or individuals of unknown vaccination status are present.
• Masking is not required in indoor public spaces if 80% or more of the individuals present are fully vaccinated (two full weeks after obtaining all required doses of a vaccine) and can provide proof of vaccination.
• Masking is not required in indoor public spaces if there are 9 or fewer individuals who are not fully vaccinated or whose vaccination status is unknown.
• Masks continue to be required in Pre-K-12 schools, public areas of county or municipal government facilities, congregate care facilities, prisons, jails, medical and healthcare settings, during travel (per CDC requirements) and personal service settings regardless of the vaccination status of the individuals present.
• Face coverings are required for all individuals in a Mass Indoor Gathering (more than 100 unvaccinated people or people whose vaccination status is unknown gathered in a room indoors).

JCPH reminds our community that though masking is no longer required outdoors, and under the new provisions of this order may not be required in certain indoor settings, it is strongly recommended to continue to wear a mask in higher risk settings to prevent the spread of disease, such as when in large groups, indoors in high-traffic areas or while spending time with those who have not yet been vaccinated. Mask-wearing is a proven strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19, which is still prevalent in our community.

Jefferson County can enjoy these new regulations around masks as long as disease transmission remains stable or decreases. However, if the number of cases and hospitalizations rises, JCPH’s order may be amended to require masking in more settings.

In addition, JCPH urges all members of our community to get vaccinated as soon as they can. Vaccines are currently available and approved for all adults age 16 and older, and we anticipate changes in eligibility to soon include youth age 12-15.

Because of the growing rates of vaccination in our community, modeling from the Colorado School of Public Health indicates that we’re getting closer each day to a highly-anticipated milestone – by late May, it’s expected that enough Coloradans will be vaccinated to greatly reduce community spread.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is safe and effective, and the loosening of restrictions we’re seeing now is a direct result of the millions of Coloradans and hundreds of thousands of Jeffco residents who have received their vaccine and are better protected against the virus,” Dr. Comstock said. “One step at a time, we are beating this thing. The people of Jeffco have worked hard and long at this, and we at JCPH are proud of all the efforts you’ve taken. Please continue to remain vigilant just a little longer while we get more of our community to that safer place and encourage everyone you know who has not already done so to get vaccinated.”

For those looking to get a vaccine, there are a number of ways to do so. Information about where to find a vaccine, how to sign up and more is available on JCPH’s COVID-19 Vaccination webpage.

Please see JCPH’s mask order and CDPHE’s mask order for more information.

About Jefferson County Public Health

Public health is what we as a society do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our neighborhoods and communities. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is a nationally accredited health department committed to promoting and protecting health across the lifespan for all people through prevention, education and partnerships. To learn more about JCPH visithttps://www.jeffco.us/public-health. You can also follow JCPH on Twitter @JeffcoPH, Instagram @JeffcoPH and Facebook @jeffcopublichealth.

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update: FDA Authorizes Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for Emergency Use in Adolescents in Another Important Action in Fight Against Pandemic

For Immediate Release:
May 10, 2021

Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine for the prevention of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to include adolescents 12 through 15 years of age. The FDA amended the EUA originally issued on Dec. 11, 2020 for administration in individuals 16 years of age and older.

“The FDA’s expansion of the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine to include adolescents 12 through 15 years of age is a significant step in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Acting FDA Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. “Today’s action allows for a younger population to be protected from COVID-19, bringing us closer to returning to a sense of normalcy and to ending the pandemic. Parents and guardians can rest assured that the agency undertook a rigorous and thorough review of all available data, as we have with all of our COVID-19 vaccine emergency use authorizations.”

From March 1, 2020 through April 30, 2021, approximately 1.5 million COVID-19 cases in individuals 11 to 17 years of age have been reported to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Children and adolescents generally have a milder COVID-19 disease course as compared to adults. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine is administered as a series of two doses, three weeks apart, the same dosage and dosing regimen for 16 years of age and older.

The FDA has determined that Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine has met the statutory criteria to amend the EUA, and that the known and potential benefits of this vaccine in individuals 12 years of age and older outweigh the known and potential risks, supporting the vaccine’s use in this population.

“Having a vaccine authorized for a younger population is a critical step in continuing to lessen the immense public health burden caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Peter Marks, M.D., Ph.D., director of the FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research. “With science guiding our evaluation and decision-making process, the FDA can assure the public and medical community that the available data meet our rigorous standards to support the emergency use of this vaccine in the adolescent population 12 years of age and older.”

The FDA has updated the Fact Sheets for Healthcare Providers Administering the Vaccine (Vaccination Providers) and for Recipients and Caregivers with information to reflect the use of the vaccine in the adolescent population, including the benefits and risks of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine.

The EUA amendment for the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine was issued to Pfizer Inc. The issuance of an EUA is not an FDA approval (licensure) of a vaccine. The EUA will be effective until the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of the emergency use of drugs and biologics for prevention and treatment of COVID-19 is terminated, and may be revised or revoked if it is determined the EUA no longer meets the statutory criteria for issuance or to protect public health or safety.

Read more at www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announceme...accine-emergency-use

May 13, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Ashley Sever
Public Affairs Manager
720-431-6057
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nikki Work
Sr. Public Affairs Coordinator, Media Lead
720-431-6071
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jefferson County to Move to Level Clear May 16
Businesses, activities fully open while county enters 90-day observation period

Jefferson County, Colo. – Beginning May 16, Jefferson County will move to Level Clear on the Simplified Dial, per JCPH’s Public Health Order 21-001. Under Level Clear, the county will enter a 90-day observation period during which businesses will be able to operate at 100 percent capacity with no additional restrictions, except for indoor mask requirements or other requirements implemented by the State of Colorado or Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). This move is part of a Metro Denver regional approach to phase into a full reopening as safely as possible while efforts continue to help more residents get vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Jefferson County and our neighbors across the Denver Metro Area are able to make this change now because so many residents are choosing to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Dawn Comstock, Executive Director, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH). “Getting vaccinated is our community’s path to staying fully open. Widespread vaccination coverage among Jeffco residents is the key to all of us getting back to doing the things we love. That’s why I’m so thrilled that, with the FDA’s very recent Emergency Use Approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children ages 12-15, now even more residents can be protected. Further, getting a vaccine is now easier than ever with free, walk-up vaccine clinic locations widely available across the county.”

While capacity limits and mitigation requirements will go away in Level Clear, there is a snapback provision. For 90 days (May 16-August 15), JCPH will closely monitor new hospitalizations of individuals with COVID-19, a health metric indicative of severity of COVID-19 infections. If needed, JCPH will reapply capacity limits and mitigation requirements based on hospitalization rates. For example, if the county surpasses 2.0 hospital admissions per 100,000 residents over a 14-day period, public health officials will implement restrictions as described in the public health order.

“While every step forward gives me a lot of hope, we remind residents that COVID-19 is still circulating in our community — currently, especially among young people — and variants are threatening our progress,” said Dr. Comstock. “In order to remain fully open for good, we’ll need everyone who is eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine as soon as you can. Together we can keep severe illness low as we continue efforts to contain this virus and prevent ongoing widespread community transmission.”

In Jefferson County as of May 12, 56.3% of eligible residents are fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and another 12.4% have received at least one dose of their two-dose vaccine. Public health experts estimate that 70-85% of the population needs to be vaccinated to stop the ongoing community spread of COVID-19.

With the county’s move to Level Clear, the statewide indoor mask requirements remain in effect. Community members must wear masks in indoor public settings where 10 or more unvaccinated individuals or individuals of unknown vaccination status are present, unless a business has verified that at least 80% of people in the space are fully vaccinated and have shown proof of vaccination. Most indoor public settings where large numbers of people gather and enter and exit frequently like grocery stores, retail stores and gyms will continue to need to require mask-wearing. Masks also continue to be required in Pre-K-12 schools, public areas of county or municipal government facilities, congregate care facilities, prisons, jails, medical and healthcare settings, during travel ( per CDC requirements ) and personal service settings regardless of vaccination status. All sectors must also comply with any other requirements put in place by the State of Colorado or CDPHE.

Community members should know that businesses can still require COVID-19 mitigation steps, such as continued mask wearing and social distancing measures, even if they are not required by the county or state. Anyone visiting a business should follow that particular business’s requirements for entering.

For more information about Level Clear, visit www.jeffco.us/4047/Dial-Status . For more information about where and how to get a vaccine, visit www.jeffco.us/covid-vaccine . To track vaccination coverage, hospitalization data and more in Jeffco, visit www.jeffco.us/4007/Case-Summary .

About Jefferson County Public Health

Public health is what we as a society do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our neighborhoods and communities. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is a nationally accredited health department committed to promoting and protecting health across the lifespan for all people through prevention, education and partnerships. To learn more about JCPH visit www.jeffco.us/public-health . You can also follow JCPH on Twitter @JeffcoPH, Instagram @JeffcoPH and Facebook @jeffcopublichealth.

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coloradosun.com/2021/05/17/colorado-coro...7b&mc_eid=86d8ec5269

SOMETHING is seriously misconstrued......the information is erratic and not easily understood.

JCPH COVID-19 Vaccination Clinics

JCPH and partners are hosting clinics to provide free COVID-19 vaccines in many locations across the county. Please check this page frequently as we will post new vaccine locations when available. If you have questions or need assistance with registering, please call JCPH’s COVID Vax Information Center (C-VIC) at 303-239-7000 and press option 1.
Important Information

Anyone being vaccinated must:

• Be feeling well.
• Not be currently under quarantine for a COVID exposure within the last 14 days.
• Have had no vaccines in the past 14 days.

Vaccines are free, and insurance is not required.
No ID is required.
People ages 12+ can now get the Pfizer vaccine. Minors must have a parent or guardian present, or have written or phone consent from a parent of guardian.

When & Where You Can Get Your Vaccine

(May through June posted for now)

Vaccine Rates Surpass 40 Percent in Park County and New Clinics Announced
June 23, 2021

Park County, Colo. – Park County has reached a major milestone: over 40 percent of our eligible population is now protected from COVID19 by being fully vaccinated. This good news comes as evidence shows that counties with higher vaccination rates, are experiencing lower new cases in Colorado.

And according to the state’s public health officials, the danger is greater than ever for people who haven’t completed the vaccine sequence. The delta variant is about 50% more contagious than previous variants and twice as likely to require hospitalization, which currently is the most-common version of the virus in Colorado.

If you or your loved ones have not received the vaccine yet, please consider attending one of the following clinics. Appointments and walk-ins welcome:

Saturday, June 26 - Fairplay - Northwest Fire Protection District - 21455 US Hwy 285 Fairplay, CO 80440 | 10 AM – 4 PM | Vaccine types: J&J 18+ and Pfizer 12+ Register for an appointment HERE!
Thursday, July 1 - Bailey – St. Mary of the Rockies, 236 Bulldogger Road Bailey CO 80421 | Every Thursday | Noon – 6 PM Vaccine types: J&J vaccine 18+ and Pfizer 12+Bailey: Register for an appointment HERE!

Registration and details for all vaccine clinics can be found here: Vaccine Resources | Park County, CO. Park County Public Health continues to encourage everyone who is eligible for COVID-19 vaccines to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

For information about Park County’s COVID-19 Response and to access additional resources, please visit our website.

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www.parkco.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=699

June 24, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Ashley Sever
Public Affairs Manager
720-431-6057
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nikki Work
Sr. Public Affairs Coordinator, Media Lead
720-431-6071
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jefferson County Public Health Launches Countywide Marketing Campaign to Increase COVID-19 Vaccine Rates Among Teens & Young Adults

Jefferson County, Colo. — COVID-19 vaccination rates are rising in Jefferson County, which is driving declining rates of infection overall. However, we are still seeing COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, especially among those who remain unvaccinated. Younger people are less likely to have received a COVID-19 vaccine, and although most young people experience no or minor symptoms from the virus, they are also at risk of serious illness and can infect others. In an effort to help keep as many people as possible healthy and safe, this week Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) launched a new campaign to increase vaccine coverage among teens and young adults ages 16-29.

In Jefferson County, young people have lower vaccination rates compared to other age groups. As of June 22, although more than 70% of all Jeffco residents 12 and older have received at least one dose of vaccine, only 62.3% of those ages 16-29 have received at least one dose. This trend of lower vaccination among younger people is consistent with vaccine coverage rates in the state and nationwide. According to a report just released by the CDC, COVID-19 vaccine coverage and intent to get vaccinated is lowest among people 18-39.

“It’s concerning to see lower COVID-19 vaccination rates among young people, because it means they remain at risk for illness, hospitalization and even death from COVID-19,” said Dr. Dawn Comstock, Executive Director, Jefferson County Public Health. “Because they can also spread the virus to others, it’s important for teens and young adults to get vaccinated now — especially with highly-transmissible variants like the Delta variant circulating. Being vaccinated also enables younger people to return to doing the things they love more safely. Getting vaccinated now is also critical for uninterrupted in-person learning and sports next school year.”

The campaign, called “You Can Be The Reason,” was created based on an extensive literature review, a survey of more than 6,000 teens and young adults in Jefferson County and an input session held via Zoom with members of the target demographic.

The campaign amplifies the agency of young people to make an impact, and focuses on the benefits of vaccination as identified by those in the target age range such as protecting themselves and their loved ones from the virus, as well as returning to beloved activities like in-person learning, attending events and safely gathering with family and friends. Additionally, the campaign aims to address commonly reported barriers to getting vaccinated by offering reliable vaccine safety education as well as information on how to access a free vaccine in convenient locations across the county. The campaign is being promoted across channels where young people reported they are most likely to see and hear it, including on the radio, on websites and across social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and TikTok.

“Teens and young adults have the power to help us turn a corner and recover from this pandemic, and that starts by getting a vaccine,” Comstock said. “Our hope is that this campaign will motivate more young people in Jeffco to get a vaccine as soon as possible.”

To help partners and organizations share the campaign across Jefferson County, JCPH has developed a ready-to-use communications toolkit with research-based key messages, social media posts, posters and more. For more information about COVID-19 vaccines, including how to find a free, convenient vaccine location near you, visit www.jeffco.us/covid-vaccine .

About Jefferson County Public Health
Public health is what we do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our neighborhoods and communities. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is a nationally accredited health department committed to promoting and protecting health across the lifespan for all people through prevention, education and partnerships. To learn more about JCPH visit www.jeffco.us/public-health . You can also follow JCPH on Twitter @JeffcoPH, Instagram @JeffcoPH and Facebook @jeffcopublichealth.

A reminder that you can get your COVID-19 vaccine any Tuesday at Evergreen Fire Rescue.


In Clear Creek County: EVERY WEDNESDAY, 10am-7pm, no appointment necessary at Clear Creek Resource Center, 1531 Colorado Blvd., Idaho Springs.

Park County COVID19 Vaccine Resources

In accordance with state guidance, Park County Public Health is offering the COVID19 vaccine to all eligible individuals: Pfizer for ages 12 years and the Johnson & Johnson vaccines for people 18 and older.

Upcoming Clinics: go to parkco.us/810/Vaccine-Resources to register for appointments

• Thursday, July 1 - Bailey – St. Mary of the Rockies, 236 Bulldogger Road Bailey CO 80421 | Every Thursday | Noon – 6 PM Vaccine type: J&J vaccine 18+ and Pfizer 12+
• Tuesday, July 6 - Hartsel - Hartsel Fire District 86 Valley Avenue, Hartsel, CO 80449 | 11 AM – 6 PM | Vaccine type: check upon booking.
• Thursday, July 8 - Bailey – St. Mary of the Rockies, 236 Bulldogger Road Bailey CO 80421 | Every Thursday | Noon – 6 PM Vaccine type: J&J vaccine 18+ and Pfizer 12+
• Wednesday, July 7 - Fairplay Northwest Fire Protection District - 21455 US Hwy 285 Fairplay, CO 80440 | 12 – 7 PM | Vaccine type: check upon booking.
• Saturday, July 10 - Lake George Fire Protection District, 8951 County Road 90, Lake George, CO 80827 | 9 – 11 AM | Vaccine type: J&J vaccine 18+ and Pfizer 12+.
• Saturday, July 10 - Guffey Area - Southern Park County Fire Protection District at 1745 County Road 102, Guffey, CO 80820 | 3 – 5 PM | Vaccine type: J&J vaccine 18+ and Pfizer 12+

State-Run Mass Community Clinics

• CDPHE Mobile COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics - Southwest Bus Route - Locations announced regularly in and around Park County!
• Adams County – Dick’s Sporting Goods Park Sunday – Wednesday, from 9 am - 5 pm. Register for an appointment here. Call: 720-263-5737 with questions.
• El Paso County – Broadmoor World Arena Friday – Monday, from 10 am - 6 pm. Register for an appointment here. Call: 720-263-5737 with questions.
• Mesa County – Grand Junction Convention Center Monday - Friday, from 9 am - 4 pm Register for an appointment here.
• Larimer County – The Ranch Events Complex Monday - Saturday, from 10 am - 6 pm. Register for an appointment here.
• Pueblo County – Colorado State Fairgrounds Friday – Monday, from 9 am - 5 pm Register for an appointment here. Call: 720-263-5737 with questions.

Other Vaccine Clinic Resources and Options

The following information has been provided by each hospital system, facility, or provider regarding vaccine distribution plans and options for patients. Please visit their websites to learn more:

• CDPHE Mobile COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics - New locations across the state announced regularly
  Evergreen, CO - Jefferson County Public Health & New West Physicians will offer a weekly clinic on Thursdays 8:30-2:30 at the Evergreen Fire Department, 1802 Bergen Parkway. Please register for an appointment by calling the Jefferson County Public Health call center at 303-239-7000 and press option 1.
• STRIDE Mobile – West at the RTD Parking Garage – SP+ Owned 1350 Wadsworth Blvd Lakewood, CO 80214. This is the RTD parking garage located on the corner of 14th and Wadsworth. Please enter the garage off of 14th Ave. Hours: 9 AM – 3 PM By appointment only if you require assistance, please call 720-362-4000.
• COVIDCheck Colorado is managing a pre-registry for people who want to get vaccinated. Once people register, the COVIDCheck team will send out invitations to eligible participants when appointments are available. You can also call 720-735-0031 to register.
  Fremont Public Health
  Safeway and King Soopers
  Walmart
  CVS and Walgreens
  Conifer Medical Center
  STRIDE Community Health Center
  Summit Community Care Clinic
  Centura Health
  UCHealth
  SCL Health
  HealthONE

And visit www.cocovidvaccine.org for a complete listing of vaccine providers and sign-up links statewide.

While the general public is eligible on PCPH will continue to prioritize adults 65 and older. Seniors, if you have technical or internet issues preventing you from signing up, please contact the resources below:

Park County Senior Coalition: Phone: 719-836-4295 Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Senior Alliance of Platte Canyon: Phone: 720-385-8300. Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If you don't see a clinic time that works for you, please visit this website Patient Registration to join our waiting list and be notified of upcoming clinics.

Approved Vaccine Types

Overview of approved vaccines.

On May 10, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration expanded the emergency use authorization (EUA) for the Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine for the prevention of COVID-19 to include adolescents 12 through 15 years of age. The FDA previously amended the EUA for administration in individuals 16 years of age and older. All ages are subject to change.

The Johnson & Johnson and Moderna vaccines are authorized for ages 18 and older and the Pfizer vaccine is approved for 12 and older. Please check the clinic you are registering for carefully to ensure it is offering your preferred choice. Vaccine Finder allows you to search by vaccine type and location in Colorado.

Update on Johnson & Johnson vaccine:

• Read the Governor's statement on resuming the use of the Janssen vaccine and the press release from the FDA and CDC, who determined the use of the Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine should be resumed in the United States and that the FDA and CDC have confidence that this vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19.
• CDPHE has decided to proceed by including FDA’s updated warning to patients about the increased risk of very rare but potentially severe TTS, particularly among women under the age of 50.

Who Shouldn't Get a Vaccine?

The vaccines have received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) by the FDA and are considered highly safe and effective at preventing COVID-19 infections. Most people 12 years and older (for Pfizer) and 18 and older (for Moderna and Johnson and Johnson vaccines) are able to safely receive the vaccine, but please contact your doctor if you:

• Are currently in isolation or have a fever 24 hours after the end of isolation with no improvement in symptoms
• Have been treated for COVID-19 within the last 90 days with monoclonal antibodies or convalescent plasma
• Had a severe allergic reaction after a previous dose of this vaccine
• Have had a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient of this vaccine.

July 29, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Ashley Sever
Public Affairs Manager
720-431-6057
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nikki Work
Sr. Public Affairs Coordinator, Media Lead
720-431-6071
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

In Alignment with New CDC Mask Guidelines, JCPH Strongly Encourages Residents to Wear a Mask in Indoor Public Settings Regardless of COVID-19 Vaccination Status

Jefferson County, Colo. — On July 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued new guidance recommending mask wearing for the general public, including those who are fully vaccinated, in areas where there is substantial COVID-19 transmission (defined by 50-99.99 new cases per 100,000 people in the past 7 days). Based on current COVID-19 incidence rates in Jefferson County (77.2 per 100,000 people as of July 28, 2021), Jefferson County is in the substantial transmission category. For this reason, Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) strongly recommends that all residents ages 2 and older, regardless of vaccination status, return to wearing a mask in indoor public spaces to minimize risk and maximize protection from COVID-19, including the highly infectious Delta variant.

Data show that the Delta variant is far more contagious than past strains of COVID-19, and emerging evidence suggests it spreads more than twice as easily as previous strains. In addition, while COVID-19 vaccines are only slightly less effective against the Delta variant, because no vaccine is 100% effective, it is still possible to contract the Delta variant and spread it to others, even if you are vaccinated. Wearing a mask is an easy, safe, effective and evidence-based precaution for preventing the spread of COVID-19.

“Because vaccine uptake has now stalled and cases of COVID-19 are once again increasing rapidly in Jeffco, and with the Delta variant circulating widely, we all must now take this additional step to protect ourselves and our loved ones, including our children who aren’t yet eligible to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Dawn Comstock, Executive Director, JCPH. “We know this is discouraging news, especially after months of progress. We don’t want to give up the ground our communities worked so hard to take during this battle against COVID-19. By taking recommended precautions now, we can work to minimize viral transmission to prevent the Delta variant from spreading even further.”

As we return to mask-wearing for all individuals, JCPH reminds our community of the following tips for safe, effective face coverings:

• Choose a mask that has two or more layers of washable, breathable fabric and a nose wire to prevent air from leaking out of the top.
• Masks should completely cover your nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of your face without gaps.
• Wash your hands before and after putting your face covering in place.
• Do not touch the face covering again until you remove it.
• Remove your mask to eat and drink and if it is still in good repair, you may continue to use it.

“We knew when we were able to ‘take our masks off’ earlier this summer that there was a possibility of having to put them back on. Unfortunately, we’re at that point as a community, and it’s very important for everyone to protect themselves and others from the Delta variant,” said Comstock. “The other incredibly important step all members of our community can take is to get vaccinated as soon as possible. COVID-19 vaccines are the leading public health strategy to prevent the virus. The vaccines protect against most COVID-19 infections, and prevent nearly all cases of severe illness, hospitalizations and death. You can get a free COVID-19 vaccine close to home any day of the week — don’t wait until it’s too late to protect yourself.”

JCPH is here to help support our community to access and get information about COVID-19 vaccines. Our team is available to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you may have. Call JCPH’s COVID Vax Information Center (C-VIC) at 303-239-7000 and press option 1. Find out how you can get a free COVID-19 vaccine near you — any day of the week — at www.jeffco.us/vaccine-signup .

About Jefferson County Public Health

Public health is what we do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our neighborhoods and communities. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is a nationally accredited health department committed to promoting and protecting health across the lifespan for all people through prevention, education and partnerships. To learn more about JCPH visit www.jeffco.us/public-health . You can also follow JCPH on Twitter @JeffcoPH, Instagram @JeffcoPH and Facebook @jeffcopublichealth.

July 30, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Ashley Sever
Public Affairs Manager
720-431-6057
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Nikki Work
Sr. Public Affairs Coordinator, Media Lead
720-431-6071
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jefferson County Public Health Offers Guidance for Schools, Families Ahead of Back-to-School

Jefferson County, Colo. — As Jefferson County students soon return to in-person learning, and on the heels of the release of back-to-school guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is releasing its own guidelines for a healthy, safe return to in-person learning.

JCPH’s guidelines for schools and childcares in the county align with the CDC’s, and the scientific consensus across trusted health sources including CDC, the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the American Academy of Pediatrics, is clear: a layered mitigation approach is most effective in school settings among school-aged children. Specifically, JCPH’s guidelines recommend promoting COVID-19 vaccination to all eligible youth and adults and masking for all individuals in the school setting regardless of vaccination status, as well as implementing a testing and isolation/quarantine protocol. CDC recently released a Science Brief on COVID-19 and schools, which includes more than 100 scientific sources, supporting this approach.

JCPH also reminds all people in Jeffco that COVID-19, including the more transmissible Delta variant, is rapidly spreading in our community. To help ensure a safe and fully in-person school year, we all must take precautions to keep our community as safe as possible. For our young people and their families, this is especially important, since children under 12 are not yet eligible to receive the vaccine. Here in Jeffco, about 45 percent of adolescents ages 12-15 and about 40 percent of young people ages 16-24 have not received even their first dose of COVID-19 vaccine.

“Jeffco’s children have already given up so much in the last year and a half. It’s on all of us to help make sure they don’t lose any more by missing out on in-person learning and beloved school-based extracurriculars because of illness, quarantines or outbreaks,” said Dr. Dawn Comstock, Executive Director at JCPH. “We all have a role to play in keeping our community and our community’s kids safe. If you haven’t already, get vaccinated now. If you’re in a school setting – regardless of if you’re a student, teacher, staff member or parent – we strongly urge you to wear a mask at all times. In-person educational activities must be emphasized, prioritized, and protected; they are simply too important to our children to allow them to be endangered.”

As the school year begins, and risk for our school-aged children and teens increases with a return to crowded school settings as the Delta variant continues to increase in Jeffco, JCPH offers parents and caregivers several evidence-based tips. We want to empower parents and caregivers to make decisions regarding their children’s health and safety so they feel comfortable going into this academic year.

• Ask your district or school leaders for COVID-19 vaccination rates among students and faculty/staff at your school. Encourage school leadership to require vaccination for faculty and staff who are caring for your child. Those responsible for caring for your child at school should be willing to do everything they can to protect them, including being vaccinated. Encourage school leadership to promote vaccination rates for eligible students at your school. Vaccination rates of at least 70 percent among eligible students will also provide better protection for your student. Many schools have worked very hard to help students and staff get vaccinated, and we thank and congratulate them on their efforts.
• Encourage your district or school leaders to prioritize in-person education over school-based extracurricular activities. Ask school leadership if they are requiring vaccination for all eligible extracurricular participants — including students, coaches, officials and other adult volunteers — or if they are requiring at least weekly testing for any participants who are unvaccinated. While school-based extracurricular activities are important to young people’s growth and development, in-person education must be prioritized. Unvaccinated individuals participating in extracurricular activities should not be allowed to endanger your child’s ability to receive a disruption-free, in-person education. If parents are particularly concerned about avoiding in-person education disruptions, you may also consider limiting your child’s participation in school-based extracurricular activities if your school does not require COVID-19 vaccination for all eligible participants.
• Review the newly released back-to-school guidance from CDC and school and childcare guidance from JCPH, and encourage your school to follow these guidelines. Recently updated guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the CDC and JCPH recommend mask-wearing indoors at schools for everyone, regardless of vaccination. Ask school leadership if they will be requiring masks to help protect students, and if they are not, encourage them to do so. Masks are safe, are effective in reducing viral transmission, and can help decrease disruptions to in-person education due to illness, quarantine, and outbreaks. Ask your child to wear a mask and help them learn how to wear it properly for maximum protection.

“Parents and caregivers should also talk to your children about returning to school safely, and help make sure they have the tools to make safe choices,” Comstock said. “Most importantly, please don’t let your guard down. The COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over.”

To help parents and caregivers better navigate this complex and important time, JCPH is hosting a telephone town hall with officials from JCPH, CDPHE and more called “Heading Back to School with COVID-19: Guidance for Parents & Caregivers.” The town hall will take place on Aug. 12, 2021, from 6-8 p.m. and will be available in English and Spanish. To find out how to join the telephone town hall and submit questions in advance, please visit www.jeffco.us/4039/Community-Conversations .

JCPH is here to help support our community during the COVID-19 vaccination process. Our team is available to answer your questions and talk through any concerns you may have. Call JCPH’s COVID Vax Information Center (C-VIC) at 303-239-7000 and press option 1. Find out how you can get a free COVID-19 vaccine near you — any day of the week — at www.jeffco.us/vaccinesignup .

About Jefferson County Public Health

Public health is what we do collectively to prevent illness and premature death and promote health in our neighborhoods and communities. Jefferson County Public Health (JCPH) is a nationally accredited health department committed to promoting and protecting health across the lifespan for all people through prevention, education and partnerships. To learn more about JCPH visit www.jeffco.us/public-health . You can also follow JCPH on Twitter @JeffcoPH, Instagram @JeffcoPH and Facebook @jeffcopublichealth.