New Kent County issues warning to residents as COVID-19 cases rise

NEW KENT COUNTY, Va. (WWBT) - New Kent County has issued a warning to residents on the sharp rise of COVID-19 cases around the county. The percent positivity rate has risen from 1.4% to 6.2% in just one week.

The county says there have been many events where people are not maintaining social distancing and/or people are not wearing face masks.

A large number of cases are amongst sports teams, large family gatherings and places of business.

“It is important that everyone continue to take personal responsibility to protect themselves from COVID-19,” the county said on Facebook. “The health and safety of county residents and employees remain our top priority, but we need each individual to play their part too. Please remember that an outbreak can occur anywhere, at any time.”

Officials say to remember to socially distance, practice good personal hygiene, stay at home if you are sick, get tested if you have COVID symptoms, and self-isolate if you have been exposed.

Overall, New Kent County has seen just 238 new cases, but the jump in percent positivity is causing concern.

“That has piqued our interest, and we’re starting to look into that just to figure out why that might be,” said Dr. Tom Franck, Health Director for the Chickahominy Health District, which covers New Kent County.

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