Lane County is officially moving down to the Lower risk category for COVID-19 transmission. What does this mean?
Generally, there are small differences in overall safety guidance from Moderate to Lower. Capacity stays at 50% for indoor dining but now 8 people can be seated together. The biggest changes come in outdoor recreation and entertainment where capacity has increased to half what it was pre-pandemic.
Spokesperson Jason Davis said this move is an acknowledgement of a steady trend downward in COVID-19 cases. But he added, the onus remains on every individual.
“As long as we have any amount of cases in our community, there is the risk of us seeing further outbreaks, especially since we do have those variants circulating now.”
Increased vaccination rates will help provide protection but this too is dependent upon individual choices. Davis said Public Health continues to see vaccine hesitancy in some eligible populations.
Douglas County public health officials "don't want to jinx it" as they applaud residents for their diligence in reducing COVID-19 transmission risk.
Douglas County is moving down a level—from Extreme to High Risk for COVID-19 transmission.
After hearing the announcement Tuesday, the COVID-19 Response Team praised communities for helping keep case numbers down to single digits. Officials report they haven’t seen so few COVID-19 hospitalizations since January of last year. (There are currently 3 residents in hospital.)
The High risk status allows businesses to re-open with restrictions and limitations on capacity. Faith-based organizations and local school districts may continue to offer in-person services and classes.
Douglas County residents are reminded that Senior Centers and Hookah Bars are not allowed to operate regardless of the county’s risk level.
