Health Officials Monitor COVID Outbreaks in Schools

Gov. Jim Justice said there are 59 COVID-19 outbreaks in schools in 26 counties. Nineteen schools are closed for the time being and 30 of 55 counties have declared mask mandates for schools. It’s up to each local system whether to require masks. The West Virginia Department of Education said the counties with outbreaks include Boone, Cabell, Clay, Fayette, Kanawha, Putnam, and Raleigh. Governor Justice also announced 58 outbreaks in long-term care facilities and four church outbreaks in the state. The next round of “Do It For Babydog Part 2” COVID-19 vaccine incentive prizes will be given away Thursday, Sept. 9.