COVID increase linked to church services

Posted on November 4, 2020

The local Department of Health (DOH) is reporting an increase in coronavirus cases linked to “faith-based communities and in-person services” this week, as Taylor County’s total cases surpassed 1,500 positives and 18 deaths.

DOH-Taylor released a statement encouraging church staff and congregants to wear masks, promote social distancing, intensify cleaning and minimize community sharing of worship materials.

 “This guidance is not intended to infringe on rights protected by the First Amendment or any other federal law, but to provide considerations to help communities of faith discern how to best practice their beliefs while keeping their staff and congregations safe,” DOH-Taylor Public Information Officer Martine Young said.

“We understand that these decisions, whether to accept, reject, or modify, should be consistent with your own faith traditions. However, we can provide guidance and feedback should your faith community choose. Should you have any questions, please reach out,” Young concluded.

The public health department announcement came after Taylor County reported 50 new positive cases and two new deaths since Oct. 27.

Additionally, 60 of Taylor County’s 1,501 total positive cases have been hospitalized since the pandemic began here in early April.

Approximately 70% (42) of those who have been hospitalized were over the age of 55, and 95% (17) of those who have died were above the age of 55.

The only death to occur in a person under the age of 55 was a 43-year-old female who had known contact with a positive case.

DOH-Taylor can be reached by phone at (850) 223-5139. Additional information on the DOH’s recommendations for faith-based services can be found at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) webpage on “Considerations for Communities of Faith” at: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/ community/faith-based. html

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