COVID-19 Hospitalizations Down 70% in Frederick County

County Executive Jan Gardner has announced that Frederick County will fully advance the next phase of Governor Hogan’s reopening plan

FREDERICK, Md. – Key health measures substantially improved in the past month, indicating that Frederick County is past its peak in the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall hospitalizations related to the virus have declined 70 percent since May 8. The number of people being treated in intensive care has dropped 93 percent, and acute care beds for COVID patients are down 65 percent.

As a result of these positive health metrics, County Executive Jan Gardner has announced that Frederick County will fully advance the next phase of Governor Hogan’s reopening plan, as most neighboring counties are doing. The following businesses and activities can resume in Frederick County effective at 5 p.m. on Friday, June 19, at 50 percent of their capacity with recommended best health and safety practices:

*Indoor recreation, including:

*Bingo halls, bowling alleys, pool halls

*Roller and ice skating rinks

*Social and fraternal clubs

*Fitness centers, health clubs, health spas, gyms, aquatic centers, and self-defense schools

Executive Gardner reminds residents and business owners to follow health and safety guidelines from the Maryland Department of Health. Face coverings and physical distancing are required in many settings and otherwise strongly encouraged.

“We have made great progress, thanks to the many people who stayed home and continue to do their part by wearing masks and staying 6 feet or more from others,” Executive Gardner said. “Everyone needs to take personal responsibility to keep others safe, particularly those who are most vulnerable, our elderly and people with underlying health conditions. Together, we can keep the spread of the virus low and avoid a second wave of cases that could shut down businesses and activities again. Show the love by doing your part.” #LoveFrederick