DPH and Tifton officials give update on COVID-19 situation

(TIFTON, GA) – After recording a new single day record for COVID related deaths, the Georgia Department of Public Health is mobilizing to try and get more vaccinations out to the public.

“Of course a lot of that is going to be dictated on how much vaccine we’re allocated. We’re starting to see some issues with that. But we’re hoping that we can turn it around,” says DPH District 8-1 Epidemiologist, Dr. Kenneth Lowrey

Currently, Tift County has reported more than 180 new cases over last two weeks, at a rate of 463 cases per 100,000 people

That’s why Tifton Mayor, Julie Smith and the City Council called for an extension on the city’s mask mandate this week.

“…Our numbers are starting to drop a little bit, which is good, we’re very thankful for that. But they haven’t dropped to the point where we can let our guard down. So we’ve decided to extend it for another 30 days…,” says Mayor Smith.

While numbers are starting to trend downward, both public health officials and tift leaders are urging the public…

“It’s really just a reminder to do all the things the CDC has recommended to do. Wear a mask, wash your hands, socially distance, stay at home, if possible. We know that it’s a little difficult to do…,” suggest Mayor Smith.

WhileDr. Lowrey tells us “We still have high rates of cases in our district, especially in Tift County with it being the second most populous county in our district. But we are starting to see some of that level out a little bit.”

To see about testing and vaccine eligibility, you can call the Tift County Department of Public Health at (229) 386-8373