Petersburg Pilot -

Two previously identified COVID-19 cases in Petersburg have been identified as the Delta variant according to the Petersburg Medical Center. One is a resident of Petersburg and the other is a non-resident.

As of July 16, two additional cases have been identified, both of which are Petersburg residents, bringing the total number of active cases up to 13. They have been instructed to isolate and Alaska Public Health will begin contract tracing.

Of the 13 active cases, seven are Petersburg residents and six are non-residents. At least 40% of all positive cases are the Delta variant which causes a higher viral load in patients and is easier to spread according to the Department of Health and Social Services.

Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms should call the PMC COVID Information Line at 907-772-5788. Vaccines help prevent against serious COVID illness and are available for people aged 12 or older. Vaccines and tests can be scheduled by calling the same number.