KNOX Co., Ind. (WTWO/WAWV)—After managing the COVID-19 pandemic for almost a year, Vigo and Knox County health leaders are excited to see progress as case numbers begin to decline in their communities.
Dr. Alan Stewart, Knox County Health Officer, said it seems they’re moving in the right direction and having 30% of the county’s population vaccinated has helped them get there.
“It’s been a long hard haul. It’s been a year now,” Dr. Stewart explained. “We have improved dramatically from where we were at the end of November and the first of December. We saw a little surge with the holidays. But I must admit.. it’s not as much as I thought.”
Vigo County faced a possibility of moving into the red catergory on the Indiana COVID-19 dashboard several times within the past few months.
Roni Elder, Vigo County Health Educator, said thanks to Vigo County residents complying with social distancing requirements and the county mask mandate, it never happened.
“People listened to us during the holiday season and I think they tried to stay home if they could,” she began. “They’re getting vaccinated and wearing their masks. People are really doing their parts right now.”
Dr. Stewart said he’s looking forward to seeing more positive signs in the near future..
“We have been back and forth especially with cold weather as people have been inside more and hopefully we really are getting to a point where our numbers are going to go down and stay down and we’ve seen the last of the red,” he concluded.
Elder said she understands everyone’s excitement about the county’s recent progress but she is encouraging everyone to keep following the guidelines from both the county and state.
“I want everyone to be excited. This is great that our numbers are declining. I would like for everyone to still remain cautious. Please wear your masks. Social distance when you are out and about. This isn’t the time to ease up. This is the time to stay strong,” she said.
