Command Center warns of possible ‘surge’ in virus cases

The Unified Command Center charged with preparing for COVID-19 cases in Lake County is warning residents about the possibility of an uptick in new cases in the coming weeks, especially given the area’s high percentage of residents considered to be in an at-risk category.

As of Tuesday, Lake County had only five confirmed cases and no deaths associated with the coronavirus. More than 430 people have been tested in the county.

However, the Lake County-CSKT Unified Command Center told county and Tribal officials that total number of cases could “surge” as restrictions are eased and tourists begin passing through the area again.

“The command team is telling us not if it happens, but when it happens,” said Shelly R. Fyant, Chairwoman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

“We are expecting and planning for this next 30 days because of the phased reopening.”

Gov. Steve Bullock’s phased reopening of the state allowed local restaurants and bars to welcome customers again on Monday, with restrictions on capacity and social distancing. Many retail stores were allowed to reopen last week. The CSKT Tribal Council, however, has kept its stay-at-home order in place.

While most people who contract COVID-19 experience only mild symptoms and recover, according to the most recent census information, about 67% of Lake County’s population is considered to be within the at-risk category for COVID-19.

“That really bears attention,” said Lake County Commissioner Bill Barron. “We’re not trying to scare people, but we are trying to education people.

“This percentage could become an issue if we do surge and this comes back. When you look at a population with a 67 percent risk rate, that surge could be way worse than whatever happened the first time.”

Barron said that even with restrictions easing, it’s important for people to respect guidelines about social distancing.

Barron himself said that while he’s been going to work every day, he has been limiting his trips into public spaces.

“It’s from work and to home,” Barron said about his daily routine lately. “I’ve tried really hard at maintaining the proper distancing and following the rules.”

Barron and Fyant also warned residents about scams regarding COVID-19. One local scam falsely tells people their power will be shut off if a certain amount of money isn’t mailed to the scammer. Fyant said people should call Mission Valley Power if they feel they are being scammed or have questions. Another strange scam going around, Barron said, involves people trying to sell vials of blood to protect against the virus.

“They are getting this blood and injecting it,” Barron said. “That is definitely a hoax and one you should really stay away from.”

Some financial scams are prey on people waiting their federal stimulus checks.

In general, people should be protective of their Social Security number, date of birth, bank accounts, or other personal information.

The Unified Command Center recently launched a website with local information on COVID-19 cases. Visit the site at https://www.ucc-jic.com/