FAIRMONT, W.Va. – Marion County health leaders are urging people to take the necessary steps to reduce the spread of the coronavirus as cases across the state continue to rise.
The Marion County Health Department has confirmed 83 cases so far in July.
Health department administrator Lloyd White told WAJR-AM, a MetroNews affiliate, that the increase in cases is likely related to people not using facial coverage and social distancing.
“Until we see everyone doing the right thing, we will see cases, in my opinion, they will continue to escalate,” he said. “Unfortunately, I think we will see deaths that we could have prevented.”
The statewide mask ordinance requiring facial coatings outside the home has been in effect for two weeks. White said the data should reflect the benefits of such a policy over time.
“I think it is a little early to really have enough data to say that it is effective,” he said.
The bars have been closed in Monongalia County since last Monday. White noted that the order affects the numbers in the surrounding areas because people will travel to out-of-county establishments, increasing their chances of contracting the virus.
