COVID risk rises in Teton County

The Teton County Health Department has moved the COVID-19 risk level back up into the Yellow level. This is an increase from the Green Risk level that the county has been under throughout the summer and is a result of an increase in new cases and the percentage of cases due to community spread.

As of July 13, 2021, Teton County has averaged 3.4 new cases per day for the past seven days. There have been 28 new cases in the past two weeks. 23 of the new cases in the last two weeks have been in individuals who are not fully vaccinated against COVID-19. The new cases for the last two weeks also included a cluster of COVID-19 cases who were unvaccinated and live in a congregate living setting for local employers.

Being fully vaccinated is one of the most effective measures to stop the spread of COVID-19. At this time anyone 12+ can book or walk-in for a COVID vaccine appointment. To see all available appointments and days the clinic is open please visit, www.tetoncountywy.gov/covidvax.

The Teton County Health Director, Jodie Pond, MPH, stated, “It is more important than ever for those who are eligible to get vaccinated against COVID-19. With new more contagious variants continuing to develop, the COVID-19 vaccines are our best preventative measure to stop not only the spread of COVID-19 but also the occurrence of new variants. Each time the virus replicates the more likely we are to see new, more contagious variants. The COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to reduce severe illness and death from COVID-19. If you have questions about the COVID-19 vaccines, please call our COIVD-19 hotline at 307-732-8628 to speak to one of our nurses. They are available to answer any COVID question or concern.”

Teton County Health Department is reminding all individuals that they should stay home when they are sick and test. Testing is the only way to ensure you do not have COVID-19. In partnership with the Wyoming Department of Health, Curative, and the Teton County Health Department all residents, workers and visitors in Teton County, WY can receive a free, shallow nasal, COVID-19 test. Go to www.curative.com to see hours of operation, testing locations, and to book an appointment. Walk-ups are also welcome at the testing kiosks. Test results take between 24-48 hours to receive.