From the Joint Information Center:

A Humboldt County resident in their 80s who tested positive for COVID-19 has died. An additional 18 cases of the virus were reported today, bringing to 1,928 the total number of county residents who have tested positive.

The adjusted case rate of 16.3 and positivity rate of 5.2% qualify the county for the “Purple” or Widespread tier under the state’s “Blueprint for a Safer Economy.” However, the county remains in the “Red” or Substantial tier because the state requires two weeks in a tier before reassignment.

Humboldt County Health Officer Dr. Ian Hoffman said virus data indicates that as of today the county will stay in the red tier for the next week, but the state may make a change at any time.

“Our data is worsening, not improving,” Dr. Hoffman said. “I would urge every member of our community to take precautions as if we’re in the purple tier because there is a lot of virus circulating in our community right now. Local businesses should also be cautious planning for the next few weeks because we anticipate a move back to purple next week.”

For the most recent COVID-19 information, visit cdc.gov or cdph.ca.gov. Local information is available at humboldtgov.org or during business hours by contacting the Joint Information Center at covidinfo@co.humboldt.ca.us or 707-441-5000.