MONROE — On July 27, the CDC released new recommendations based on the most up-to-date information about the Delta variant of COVID-19. The Delta variant is highly infectious and is spreading more quickly than any other strain of COVID-19.

Everyone, including fully vaccinated people, who live in areas with “substantial” or “high” disease transmission as noted on the CDC’s Data Tracker map (orange counties represent substantial transmission and red counties represent high transmission) should wear masks in public indoor settings. Green County is currently at a “moderate” level of disease transmission according to the CDC; however, this could quickly change. Mask wearing helps protect their wearer, and those around them from contracting COVID-19.

To prevent any further increase of COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations or deaths in Green County, residents 12 years of age and older should get the COVID-19 vaccine. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, from January 1, 2021 through July 22, 2021, over 98% of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin occurred among people who were not fully vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective, free, and available to everyone 12 and older. People who have questions about the COVID-19 are encouraged to talk to their doctor about the vaccine, or call Green County Public Health at (608) 328-9390 to speak to a nurse.

Green County Public Health is offering no-appointment COVID-19 vaccine clinics three days per week throughout the month of August. On Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. anyone 12 years of age and older can get vaccinated. People 12 to 17 must have a parent or guardian sign a consent form to be vaccinated.

In addition to wearing a mask and getting the COVID-19 vaccine, community members should take additional actions to protect themselves and others. People who have COVID-19 symptoms should get tested for COVID-19 and self-isolate. Additionally, unvaccinated people who have been in close contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 should quarantine and get tested. COVID-19 testing is available at Green County Public Health on Monday mornings from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.. Visit gcpublichealth.org for information or to register for a test. Testing is also available through local health care providers and pharmacies, including Walgreens and Hometown Pharmacy locations.

For updates on the rapidly changing COVID-19 pandemic, monitor the Green County Public Health website and Facebook page.