Three deaths punctuate rising COVID-19 numbers in Durham

Three new deaths from a virus that has plagued Durham Region and the world for nearly three years should be clear evidence that COVID-19 is not finished with us yet.

Most viral numbers are up, in fact, with 291 new cases of COVID-19 in the January 1-7 reporting period, and outbreaks in institutions such as retirement centres, hospitals and long term care homes rose from 14 the previous period to 16.

The incidence rate (per 100,000 population) is up as well to 39.7 from 36.3

The per cent positivity rate dipped slightly from 11.8 per cent to 11.6 per cent and while there are 42 people in hospital with the virus – including two in intensive care – that is down from 44 the previous week.

Durham Region Health releases COVID-19 statistics each Wednesday.