Chester County Reaches 'High' COVID-19 Level

CHESTER COUNTY —Chester County has leapt from a medium to high level of COVID-19 cases, officials said Monday, noting that residents are advised to wear masks in public places and stay up-to-date with vaccinations.

Those with high risk of severe illness should seek the help of healthcare providers and take additional precautions.

In the last week, from May 14 to May 21, there were 233 new cases of COVID-19 reported in Chester County, a 23% increase over the previous week, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

There were 53 new admissions to hospitals in Chester County in the last week, a 9.4% increase over the prior week.

According to the CDC tracking system, Delaware, Bucks and Montgomery counties are also in the high level.

Philadelphia, however, remains in the medium category.

The rates are calculated based on the increases in new cases and hospitalizations per 100,000 residents.

Chester County has 524,989 residents. A total of 414,858 individuals, or 79% of the population, is totally vaccinated.

How to stay safe

Here are the CDC's recommendations:

• If you test positive for COVID-19, follow the latest CDC guidance for isolation and notify your recent close contacts.
• If you test positive and have a weakened immune system or other health conditions, talk to a doctor as soon as possible about available treatment options.
• Vaccines are at testing centers throughout the Chester County. Testing information is available here.
• COVID-19 vaccine is offered at no charge to residents. The public can also visit www.vaccines.gov for a list of all vaccine providers.
• Free at-home COVID-19 tests, visit COVIDtests.gov. Every home in the U.S. is eligible to order 2 sets of 4 free at-⁠home tests.