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TODAY'S KEY MESSAGE
How to Find Information about School Outbreaks
Maricopa County Public Health has added a tab to its data dashboard that lists the current number of outbreaks at K-12 schools. So far, there have been 7 school-related outbreaks reported to Public Health, five of which are still open. These outbreaks account for a total of 28 cases: 18 in students and 10 in staff.
Maricopa County schools are required to report two or more cases of COVID-19 that don't live in the same household to MCDPH within 24 hours. This is a very early sign of an outbreak in a school setting and allows Public Health to work closely with school nurses and administrators to identify additional cases and implement control measures. Public Health works with the school to determine who was potentially exposed in the school so that every parent/guardian of a student who is exposed, as well as exposed staff members, are notified.
An outbreak is considered over if there are no new cases identified within the school community for two incubation periods or 28 days.
Who Is Getting The Virus?
Public Health data shows the majority of COVID-19 cases (51%) are people in the 20-44 age group. The number of children and young adults ages 0-19 who have tested positive for COVID-19 make up 13% of known cases in Maricopa County. This means approximately two-thirds of all COVID-19 cases have been in people under the age of 44.
While younger people are less likely to have severe illness due to COVID-19, some do get very sick. Even people with mild symptoms are still able to spread the virus to people who are more likely to get severe illness.
We all need to mask up, keep our distance from others, and stay home if we’re sick.
Public Health recommends everyone over the age of two years old get a flu shot this year. The best time to get your flu vaccination is now, before flu viruses begin spreading in our community. The shot will cover you for the entire flu season.
Our three childhood immunization clinics around Maricopa County now have free flu shots for anyone 6 months through 18 years of age. Please call ahead to ensure vaccine is available.
This is a tough time to own or operate a business. We want to remind you that there are resources available at arizonatogether.org and on the Maricopa County Public Health and Environmental Services websites. Did your business suffer financial losses due to COVID-19? Consider applying for one of our small business or non-profit grants.
Today is National Voter Registration Day, which means it’s the perfect time to ensure you will be able to vote in the November election. The deadline to register is October 5. Visit BeBallotReady.voteto check your registration status and see registration options here. Remember: ballots mail on October 7and in-person voting is available from October 7 through November 3.
2020 CENSUS
Make your voice count and help your community return stronger. Participate in the 2020 Census so Arizona receives its fair share of federal funding for infrastructure, emergency response, and community services.
All information requests related to Maricopa County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic should be directed to the Joint Information Center using the email address caomedia@maricopa.gov.
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