SAN LUIS VALLEY– The San Luis Valley has seen a slow but steady decline in reported COVID-19 cases since the third week of June. There were 104 cases reported in the past week.

During the same period, related hospital admissions have averaged about 3 per week. It is not known how much of the decline in known cases may be attributed to decreased availability of lab testing and inconsistent reporting of home test results.  

The BA.5 subvariant is the current predominant strain of the virus. It is very transmissible and it is good at evading immunity, whether from previous infection or vaccination. The good news is that vaccination and booster shots still reduce the likelihood of severe illness, as does early treatment for those at highest risk. High quality face masks offer additional protection in indoor group settings, especially for those who are immunocompromised or at high risk. 

COVID-19 vaccines are available through local vaccine providers, and state supported mobile vaccine clinics are scheduled from 10am to 6pm at the following locations: 

• Wednesday 8/3/22 at the Steam Train Hotel in Antonito

• Thursday 8/4/22 at Lu’s Main St Cafe in Blanca

• Friday 8/5/22 at the Farm Company in Mosca

• Saturday 8/6/22 at Chapman Park in Monte Vista

• Sunday 8/7/22 at the Farm Workers Appreciation Picnic at Casa Blanca Park in Center

• Tuesday 8/9/22 at Dollar Tree in Alamosa

More information on COVID-19 data, vaccinations and locations to obtain home test kits is available at www.slvphp.com.