Friends and neighbors,

COVID-19 cases are on the rise once again with the Delta variant causing a spike in hospitalizations, particularly among unvaccinated Delawareans.

Vaccinated Delawareans are less likely to suffer severe symptoms, but they can still contract the virus and spread the disease to others. Hospitals in COVID-19 hotspots are also reporting a spike in hospitalizations among children, sparking concerns that the now predominant Delta variant might pose a more serious threat to young people.

To help contain the spread, Governor John Carney this week announced that masks will be required indoors at Delaware K-12 schools and childcare facilities regardless of an individual’s vaccination status, starting Monday, Aug. 16. This requirement is consistent with guidance from the CDC.

Starting Monday, masks also will be required for state employees and visitors to Delaware state facilities.

We all saw last year how COVID-19 cases can ramp up in the fall.

If you have not been vaccinated already, please do your part now to save lives in the coming weeks and months by joining the roughly 72% of Delawareans 12 and older who have received at least one shot of the COVID-19 vaccine. If you have been vaccinated, encourage your friends, family and neighbors to do soo, too.

Click here to find a free COVID-19 vaccine provider near you.

For people who are unvaccinated, testing is the key to identifying and preventing additional infections.

Please get tested at least once a week if you choose to remain unvaccinated or have an underlying health condition that prevents you from getting vaccinated.

Click here for a full list of testing locations and options.

All schools and early learning facilities throughout the state are also offering free rapid antigen testing for staff and students.

You also can download the free COVID Alert DE app to your phone. The app will help alert you if you have come in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Click here to download the app today.

Please stay safe and healthy!

Nicole Poore
Senator, 12th District