Statewide Mask Order Takes Effect Friday at 5 p.m.
Cover Up to Avoid Shutting Down
FREDERICK, Md. – In an effort to make COVID-19 testing available to as many people as possible, the Frederick County Health Department is setting up a community testing clinic for residents living along the Golden Mile area of U.S. Route 40 in the City of Frederick. County Executive Jan Gardner and County Health Officer Dr. Barbara Brookmyer announced the August 8 opening of the clinic during a public information briefing today.
“Testing is a critical component of our path forward,” said Executive Gardner. “Testing is free and easy. I encourage everyone to be tested and to do their part by wearing masks. Working together, we can prevent a spike in cases that could close businesses again. Cover up to avoid shutting down.”
The number of COVID-related cases and hospitalizations in Frederick County are ticking up slightly. More than half of all new confirmed cases last week were in people under age 30. Young people can get sick and can transmit the virus to others. With over 16% of the population tested to date, Frederick County’s positivity rate stands at 2.6%.
During the briefing, Executive Gardner reminded the public that Gov. Larry Hogan issued a statewide mandatory mask order that takes effect Friday at 5 p.m. Face coverings will be required inside buildings and public spaces, and outside where physical distancing is not possible. Residents are reminded to avoid crowds. Across Maryland, a majority of cases have been spread through family gatherings and house parties.
Daily statistics concerning COVID-19 in Frederick County can be found online at FrederickCountyMD.gov/COVIDstats. The site also includes weekly reports on nursing home infections and on the demographics of confirmed cases, which are updated each Wednesday.
###