Note: As of May 11, 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Connecticut Department of Public Health announced the expiration of the COVID-19 public health emergency. Data reporting will now be seasonal with new updates expected in fall of 2023.
What are Connecticut's COVID-19 infection rates?
Connecticut's COVID-19 positivity rate on Thursday was 3.69%. State officials report 48 people hospitalized, a decrease of 13 people over the last seven days.
The state Department of Public Health (DPH) says COVID-19 therapeutics are available for Connecticut residents. A site locator for COVID-19 treatments is hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the National Infusion Center Association. The DPH says patients should coordinate with their doctor before contacting a treatment location.
Should you wear a mask?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) now says local masking ordinances should be based on hospitalizations, hospital capacity and cases. Based on those numbers, counties will be sorted into three risk categories: low, medium and high. According to the CDC, people in "high" risk counties should wear masks, but the agency notes exceptions, urging certain people to mask when COVID levels are lower.
Most recent data from the CDC show Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland and Windam counties listed as "low" risk.
Despite the updated federal guidance, the Connecticut Department of Public Health noted in a recent statement, "it’s important to note that residents who are more comfortable wearing a mask should continue to do so if they wish. People with symptoms, a positive test or exposure to someone with COVID-19 also should wear a mask."
How many people in Connecticut are vaccinated?
The CDC reports that 95% of the state's total population has received at least one vaccine dose, 83.2% are fully vaccinated and 25.4% have a bivalent booster. As of May 3, CDC data show a total of 11,857,995 COVID-19 vaccine doses distributed to Connecticut and 9,032,746 doses administered. Vaccine data are updated weekly.
Right now, COVID-19 vaccines are available for people 6 months and older. Booster shots are also available. More information about where to get a vaccine is at VaccineFinder.org or at the CT Vaccine Portal. You may also dial 211.
