County reports increase in COVID-19 cases as protests continue

OKLAHOMA CITY (KOKH) — As protests continue to draw in large crowds across Oklahoma County, health officials warn an increase in coronavirus cases could be on its way.

The Oklahoma City-County Health Department reported on Monday that their epidemiologists have noticed a slight increase in positive COVID-19 among young people.

The new cases reported between May 22nd and June 5th showed a 13% rise in those under the age of 34.

Chief of Governmental Affairs with the Oklahoma City-County Health Department,LToya Knighten says, "We know that COVID-19 is out there in our community."

The state's reopening is believed to play a role in the latest increase, as well as the recent protests.

As crowds of thousands gathered across the city to spread the Black Lives Matter message, they could also unknowingly have spread coronavirus along with it.

"There’s a potential for a spike anytime there are large group gathering," saysKnighten.

If you’ve marched in the recent protests, the CDC is now warning that you may want to get tested.

"Whether they’re exhibiting symptoms or not, whether they were in a large group and they say 'I want to get a test just to make sure I’m OK,' we definitely recommend that," says Knighten.

Last week, an Oklahoma State linebacker took to twitter announcing his COVID-19 diagnosis. Part of that tweet reading, “Please, if you are going to protest, take care of yourself and stay safe.”

"If you feel ill if you’re coughing if you have a fever, do not go to that demonstration,"says Knighten.

The health department also recommends wearing a mask and trying to remain socially distant when out in public

"That may be difficult to do, but it’s important to try,"says Knighten.

Tear gas deployed by law enforcement could also be a factor.

The gas often forces people to cough, which inevitably, "Of course spews raspatory droplets into the air. Anyone who was in close proximity to that person has the potential to be exposed,"says Knighten.

But even if a second surge in positive cases were to arise, the County says they're well equipped to handle that situation.

"If there was a significant spike in cases our health care system is well prepared to meet that challenge," says Knighten.

OCCHD offers free testing at two convenient locations Monday – Friday:

The Northeast Campus at 2600 NE 63rd from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

The Southern Oaks Campus at 6728 South Hudson from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

Make an appointment by calling our Nurse Hotline (405) 425-4489