Utah’s 7-day average for positive COVID-19 cases hits 15%–the highest to date
Oct 21, 2020, 3:12 PM
SALT LAKE CITY — Utah’s rolling 7-day average for positive cases of COVID-19 has increased to 15.1% according to the latest grouping of COVID-19 statistics reported by the Utah Department of Health (UDOH).
The 15.1% number is the highest positivity rate reported in Utah since the beginning of the global pandemic.
Throughout the summer of 2020, the rolling 7-day average is a statistic that Utah Gov. Gary Herbert has paid particular attention to as a tool to assess the health of Utah’s reaction to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In August, Herbert challenged all Utahns to reduce this average to under 400 per day. But according to the Utah coronavirus webpage, the last time the rolling 7-day average for positive cases in Utah was near 400 was in mid-September.
On Wednesday the state reported 1,363 new cases of COVID-19, bringing the single day infection rate to 18%. There’s also 314 people currently hospitalized due to COVID-19 complications, 111 patients are in the intensive care unit (ICU).
Hospital and ICU capacity is another factor state and health officials have been keeping a close eye on. The recent spike in infections and hospitalizations prompted Utah officials to change the state’s response to the pandemic.
Additionally, on Wednesday UDOH reported that another 6 Utahns lost their lives to the coronavirus.
How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19Coronavirus
COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:
- Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
- Don’t touch your face.
- Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
- If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
- Get a flu shot.
Local resources
Utah’s Coronavirus Information
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707
National Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention