The overall count of COVID-19 outbreaks in Colorado dropped compared to last week, but the state recorded more clusters in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reported 778 outbreaks as of Wednesday afternoon, which was about 9% fewer than at the same time last week. The biggest declines were in office and restaurants (both down 17) and in retail environments (down 12).
The state defines an outbreak as two or more cases linked to the same location or event. An outbreak isn’t considered over until four weeks have passed with no new cases.
Schools remained the most common site of outbreaks, with 257 — the same number as last week.
The number of outbreaks in assisted living facilities increased by eight, wiping out much of the progress from last week, when they dropped by 11. The rebound was less dramatic in nursing homes, which saw four more outbreaks this week after posting 14 fewer last week.
While the increases are relatively small, outbreaks in long-term care facilities are more concerning than in other facilities, because older people are more vulnerable to severe complications from COVID-19.
The currently active outbreaks in long-term care facilities have infected 232 residents and 472 staff members. Five residents and one staff member have died.
