Chaffee County has 37 cases of coronavirus. Here’s the latest COVID-19 update from Chaffee County Public Health.

Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center

Currently, HRRMC is operating at 44% capacity, or 11 beds out of 25. 

Current patients hospitalized with suspected COVID-19: 2 

HRRMC tests from ED, inpatient, clinics, tent, employees, and providers: 206; 15 positive, 169 negative, 22 pending.

By the Numbers

Positive Cases (including probable): 37

Deaths: 3

As of yesterday 4/8 at 4 pm, there were 5,655 cases, 1,162 hospitalized, 54 counties impacted, 29,199 people tested, and 193 deaths related to COVID-19 in Colorado. 

Reporting Tool Removed

CCPH has chosen to  remove the non-compliance reporting tool that was launched yesterday.  We are sad and sorry about the extreme backlash this caused, however we also feel it is necessary to explain our intentions.  First, CCPH’s number one priority will always be saving lives. This community has had to make extreme sacrifices in the last month, and though we are heartbroken about the effect this is having on our economy, these sacrifices are being made to keep people safe.  These public health orders are temporary, but they need to be followed by all community members in order to be effective.

Currently our staff is inundated with non-compliance reporting.  Many of these concerned citizens report their concerns and complaints over multiple channels – phone calls, emails, and Facebook messages. Our intention with the tool was IN NO WAY for it to be used to make someone feel unsafe or that we are not trustworthy.  Truly, it was an innocent gesture to help streamline the incredible amount of information we receive on a daily basis. Many other counties are doing this, and at the time it seemed like a rational choice. However, we quickly recognized our mistake and it was removed.  We apologize. We will continue to hear your concerns through our normal channels.

This is a trying time for everyone.  Each one of us has been affected by this crisis in some way.  Anger, frustration, emotional volatility, sadness – all this is normal.  The CCPH staff are feeling all of these same emotions, while also trying to manage this crisis.  We’ve never done this before and we will make mistakes. We do not want you to shy away from helping us do better, but we ask that you do so while remembering that we are also fellow humans and residents of this beautiful county.  

Long-Term Care Facility Outbreak 

Columbine Manor is currently experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19.  Because data is reported differently depending on which lab is used to run the test, it has been challenging to get accurate numbers. We have worked very hard with Columbine Manor today to make sure we all are reporting the same information. 

At this time, there have been 22 positive cases of COVID-19 in Columbine. This consists of 13 living residents, 2 resident deaths, and 7 staff. We recognize that the community is rightfully very concerned about this outbreak. We are in daily communication with Columbine Manor leadership to ensure that they are following all recommended guidelines for controlling an outbreak of this magnitude.  Columbine is testing all staff for COVID-19, even if they are not symptomatic. They will also begin testing all residents.

Yesterday, all staff, regardless of symptoms, were given isolation and quarantine orders until test results are in.

More Info: https://lcca.com/locations/co/columbine-manor/announcement

Antibody Testing

Chaffee County is working on a plan to offer antibody testing to some Chaffee County residents.  Antibody testing is a quick finger-prick blood test that looks for antibodies to COVID-19. This tool could be useful for determining those who had COVID-19 in the past and now may be considered immune.  Antibody testing is not FDA approved, but in this emergency we have been authorized. Results from antibody testing are received within 15 minutes. We hope to offer this tool in Chaffee County soon.

Masks

The CDC and State of Colorado now recommend the use of masks when out in public. Masks alone will not prevent COVID-19. Proper use of the mask combined with good hygienic practices, staying at home, social distancing and limiting visits to essential business may prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

Currently both Salida and Buena Vista have facemask projects where residents can purchase or get a mask for free.  Check them out if you are in need of a mask! CCPH will also host a mask drive next week to offer free masks to residents who have not been able to get one.