SAN LUIS VALLEY - COVID-19 vaccines are very effective as protection against COVID-19 illness, but they are not a 100% guarantee. While those who have been vaccinated can and should breathe easier regarding the virus, there are a couple of factors that cause public health authorities to continue to advise caution by the community as a whole.

The first factor is the high number of eligible San Luis Valley residents (over 23,700) who have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine. In Colorado, counties with low vaccination rates have a strong correlation with high rates COVID-19 hospitalizations. If you received the first of a 2-dose vaccine, make sure to follow up with your 2nd shot. Even if you already had COVID-19 illness, a vaccine is recommended. If you have not yet received a vaccine, go to slvphp.com for a list of providers, or call 719-480-8719 for help finding a vaccine provider to meet your needs.

The second factor prompting continued caution is the presence of variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Variants are classified into 3 categories, from lowest risk to highest risk: variants of interest, variants of concern, and variants of high consequence.

The Delta (B.1.617.2) variant of concern has been identified in the San Luis Valley. Delta is getting a lot of attention in Colorado and around the world due to its high transmissibility and increased potential for severe COVID-19 illness. Other variants of concern found in the San Luis Valley thus far are, in order of frequency: Alpha (B.1.1.7), Epsilon (B.1.427/B.1.429), and Gamma (P.1). Variants of concern have increased risk of transmission, illness, hospitalization, and reduced effectiveness of treatments and testing.

Variants of interest identified to date in the San Luis Valley are Eta (B.1.525) and Iota (B.1.526). So far, no cases in the high consequence category have been identified in the United States.

Given that variants are present here, it is very important for those with COVID-19 illness to observe recommended Isolation, and those who have been exposed to observe the recommended quarantine in order to prevent the spread of illness. If you have questions about your situation please contact your local public health agency.

There were 75 known active cases of COVID-19 in the San Luis Valley as of Thursday.

Alamosa County - 19

Conejos County - 24

Costilla County -2

Mineral County - 0

Rio Grande County - 6

Saguache County - 24