Here’s what Allegheny Co. officials say is contributing to a slow rise in cases

ALLEGHENY COUNTY, Pa. — Allegheny County health leaders said while we’re not seeing a rapid surge, we’re also not in the clear.

There is a slow, but notable, rise of COVID-19 cases in the county.

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Officials said this is because of the gradual reopening we’re seeing in our communities and people being more social.

Debra Bogen, the director of the Allegheny County Health Department said from contact tracing, these are the reasons for cases slowly climbing:

• Backyard barbeques
• Family gatherings
• Weddings
• Funerals
• Parties
• Going out to eat
• Social events for kids & young adults
• Letting guard down with masks

“We don’t want to ignore this creep of cases upward. This slow increase should remind us things aren’t getting better in Allegheny County, but they also aren’t getting substantially worse as they are in other parts of the state or country,” Bogen said.

The health department emphasized that even when you’re with close family members and friends, the best thing you can do for yourself, loved ones and the community, is keeping your mask on.

Health leaders are also asking the public to get your flu shot early this year, especially as the weather cools down and more people stay indoors.

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Cox Media Group