State reports fewer cases of COVID-19 per-capita, expands vaccine eligibility

On Wednesday, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services released its weekly update on the COVID-19 pandemic in the state along with an announcement that a new group of Alaskans will soon be eligible for COVID-19 vaccines.

In terms of overall trends, there is some positive news.  Transmission rates statewide continue to fall.  Transmission is measured by how many people a single person with the virus that causes COVID-19 is likely to infect.  When that number falls below 1, as it currently is in Alaska, it means overall case numbers should decline over time.

In addition, Alaska continues to have the highest per-capita vaccination rate in the country. DHSS says its vaccination programs are continuing, and that supply of COVID-19 vaccines continues to be the main limiting factor.

Statewide, the number of cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 people has been cut in half since the week of Christmas, and is now just under twenty.   The Mat-Su’s numbers have also been cut in half since then, but the rate of cases is still higher than the statewide average.

Also on Wednesday, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services announced that  the next eligibility group for COVID-19 vaccinations can begin making appointments today (THURSDAY). 

The new group, Phase 1b Tier 2, includes Alaskans 50 years of age and older who either have certain pre-existing conditions or are essential workers whose jobs involve contact with the public.  A list of both the conditions and types of job included is posted at the DHSS website. 

Some professions are eligible for vaccination regardless of age, including education.  The newly opened tier allows teachers, school support staff, childcare workers, and indigenous language and culture bearers.  Alaskans living and working in congregate living facilities are also eligible under the new opening.

While numbers are decreasing, the Department of Health and Social Services says Alaskans can continue to slow the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, avoiding indoor gatherings, getting vaccinated when eligible, and following out of state travel protocols for testing and self-isolation.