LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – On Wednesday night, Lake County’s Public Health officer reported that three more county residents have tested positive for COVID-19.
Dr. Gary Pace said nine new cases of COVID-19 were confirmed in Lake County on Tuesday and Wednesday, bringing the cumulative total to 23.
Lake County's caseload has nearly doubled over the past week, with 11 newly documented cases reported.
News of the local increase in cases comes as California's cases topped 101,000, with more than 3,900 deaths, based on information from county Public Health departments statewide.
With regard to Lake County’s newest cases, Pace said Wednesday night, “Two different clusters of active infections have been identified. Eight of the 11 recent positive tests are related to these clusters. Both are still being investigated, to determine if there are further associated cases.”
Of the 11 newly reported cases, three individuals tested positive outside of the area but reside in Lake County, Pace said.
He said all of those confirmed positive are stable and complying with home isolation. There are no active COVID-19-related hospitalizations.
“With many sectors of our economy reopening, and Clear Lake once again attracting tourists from areas with greater viral activity, some continuing increase in cases is likely over the next couple of weeks,” Pace said.
“Because we had relatively few cases over a sustained period prior to this recent rise, some may have been under the impression the virus was not present in Lake County’s communities,” Pace added. “It is more probable some mild-moderate infections were not being captured by testing. COVID-19 risk remains significant in our region, and travel will only increase as restrictions further loosen.”
Pace said all newly confirmed cases are taken very seriously, with each investigated, and contacts identified and interviewed. “In the event COVID-19 is suspected, we test and isolate those that may have been exposed.”
While some Northern California counties have already discussed slowing their reopening plans in light of moderate upticks in infections – such as in the case of Lassen and Sonoma counties – Pace said that isn't the situation for now in Lake County, as those involved in the local containment strategy have been able to appropriately respond.
“Recent positive tests mean we will need to move slowly and thoughtfully when further loosening restrictions, particularly if new cases continue to significantly rise, testing capacity is outpaced by need, or contact tracing or local health care resources start to become overwhelmed,” Pace said.
No-cost drive-thru testing is available at different locations around the county, open daily during the week. People needing testing can go to the Verily website and get screened and make an appointment.
Frequently asked questions on drive-thru testing are available here.
Email Elizabeth Larson at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Follow her on Twitter, @ERLarson, or Lake County News, @LakeCoNews.