More COVID in the Region

(Jefferson City, MO) Officials with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services say vaccination rates in the Parkland are low and need to improve. Hospitalizations are on the rise and it's believed the Delta variant, which spreads more easily, and poses higher risk of hospitalization than prior variants, is believed to be contributing to the increase. The vaccination rates in Washington County are at 24.7% of residents. In Iron County the rate is 30.5% while Ste. Genevieve County sits at 35.2% and St. Francois County is at 33.8%. Experts say at least 70% to 80% of people need immunity to minimize spread within a community. If you choose not to get vaccinated remember to socially distance yourself from others, wear a mask when appropriate, avoid others who are sick, stay away from others if you have symptoms, cover your cough or sneeze, and wash your hands frequently.