Mat-Su's Coronavirus numbers rise along with the rest of Alaska

In the last few days, the State of Alaska has seen the highest daily numbers for infections of the virus that causes COVID-19 since the pandemic began.  The Mat-Su Borough is following a similar trend, with a spike in reported cases over the weekend and stretching into this week.

The state saw its highest number of cases on Sunday with more than 500.  On that same day, eighty-one positive tests were reported in the Mat-Su Borough.  While Sunday was the largest single day for confirmed infections, Saturday did not fall far behind.  Monday also saw more than fifty new cases.

According to the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services COVID-19 dashboard, the Mat-Su’s current numbers show a positive test rate over fifteen percent.  At the current rate of infection, it could take as little as a week for infection numbers to double.

State health officials are asking Alaskans to take precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 seriously.  Dr. Anne Zink, the state’s chief medical officer, said on Facebook in advance of Sunday’s record-breaking numbers, “Alaska, we need your help, we are on a fast acceleration.”QUOTE

Preventive measures advised by the state include avoiding large gatherings, wearing masks when around other people from outside a person’s household, hand washing, and social distancing of at least six feet.