As of Wednesday, June 9^th, Memorial Regional Health has four COVID-positive patients admitted to the hospital. Yesterday, Tuesday, June 8^th, MRH admitted three COVID-positive patients, and a COVID-positive patient died in the Emergency Department. The official cause of death will be determined by the Moffat County Coroner.

“We are deeply sorry for the friends and family members who lost a loved one yesterday. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time,” said Andy Daniels, CEO of Memorial Regional Health.

Positive Tests Decrease, Hospital Admissions Increase

Last week, the overall percentage of COVID-positive tests decreased from 36.76% to 22.39%. During that same time period, the number of COVID-positive individuals admitted to the hospital increased from 3 the week prior to 8. This number represents individuals admitted, and does not reflect the length of each stay.

Moffat County’s rise in positive cases and hospitalizations is consistent with the statewide COVID trends. Dr. Matthew Grzegozewski, Medical Director for the MRH Emergency Department and Craig Rapid Care wants the community to be aware of what is happening in Moffat County. “I am very concerned about this worsening trend for our community.  There is no cure for this virus.  Only prevention.  It is true, for some it can be a mild illness.  But it is also ruthless, and there is no way to tell who it will pick.  We are still watching so many otherwise healthy people requiring hospitalization, developing permanent complications, and yes, dying.  Another patient died here just yesterday.  It isn’t gone, by any means.”

Vaccination Rate Lower than State’s

Moffat County’s percentage of fully vaccinated residents is well below the State’s percentage of vaccinated individuals. Only 30% of the County’s total population has received at least one dose of vaccine compared to the State’s 55%.

“We are asking you, not for any reason other than your welfare and protection: please consider getting a vaccine if you haven’t already.  We are so thankful to all of those who have gotten their COVID vaccine and have made the commitment to protect themselves, their families and our community. You trust us with your care, and the care of your family when you are hurt or injured.

Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine to Protect Yourself and Others

All three vaccines currently in use have shown to be effective in preventing the contraction of COVID-19 as well as in reducing the asymptomatic spread of the virus. If the virus can’t spread, it also can’t mutate. Those who are fully vaccinated still have some risk of getting infected with COVID, but the vaccine does help reduce the severity of illness and the need for hospitalization.

It is likely that we will always have to contend with the COVID-19 virus, but we are working to make sure we can prevent as much virus as possible and lessen the severity — more like we see with influenza.

Moffat County Vaccine Data
Total Moffat County Population – 13,127
Total People Vaccinated (at least one dose) – 3,717
Percent of Moffat County Vaccinated (total population – 28.32%)
Percent of ELIGIBLE Moffat County Residents Vaccinated (over age 18) – 39.33%
Percent of those 70+ vaccinated – 73.47%

Governor Polis announced yesterday that fully vaccinated Coloradans will be automatically entered to win $1 million. Every Friday in June, a name will be drawn and that person will receive the $1 million prize. For more information, you can visit https://covid19.colorado.gov/coloradocomebackcash.

If you have not received your vaccine yet, MRH is offering both the Moderna (two shots) and the Johnson and Johnson (single shot) vaccines each week. Call 970-826-2400 to schedule. There is no cost to receive the vaccine. To learn more about the vaccines available, visit https://covid19.colorado.gov/Learn-about-COVID-19-vaccines.