SAN LUIS VALLEY — The rate of COVID-19 cases in the San Luis Valley has begun to decrease. As of Monday, May 24, there were 175 known active cases of COVID-19 in the San Luis Valley. One week ago, the Valley had 219 active cases.

Active case counts and other data are being updated weekdays at https://www.slvphp.com/slv-regional-covid-dial.

• Alamosa County — 98
• Conejos County — 39
• Costilla County — 10
• Mineral County — 2
• Rio Grande County — 18
• Saguache County — 7

“The risk of infection is still elevated for those who are not yet vaccinated, so please take precautions to protect yourself and others by keeping gatherings small and wearing a mask in public indoor spaces. If you feel sick, get tested for COVID-19, and stay away from others,” SLV public health officials stated.

Even if a person has already had COVID-19, vaccination is recommended. Having had COVID-19 does not necessarily mean a person is immune from COVID-19.

“We all respond differently to infection and our immune systems vary in building ‘memory cells,’” officials stated. “Re-infection is possible if it has been more than 90 days since you were infected with the virus. Getting vaccinated builds a consistent level of immunity that prevents the spread of the virus in our community. Getting the vaccine after you have recovered is an important health step to take.”

The number of San Luis Valley residents who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19 is 16,817, an increase of 939 since last week’s report. There are many ways to get the vaccine, including confidential scheduled appointments. See www.slvphp.comto sign up online with local vaccine providers — hospitals, clinics, pharmacies, and public health agencies — or call 719-480-8719 for help finding a convenient provider.

 Special events coming up in various locations are listed below:

• Centennial School, San Luis, Wednesday, May 26, 9 a.m.-noon. CDPHE vaccine bus with J&J and Pfizer, ages 12 and older.
• Adams State Plachy Hall, Tuesday, May 25, 1-7 p.m., CDPHE vaccine bus with J&J and Pfizer, ages 12 and older.
• Adams Street-Main Street, Monte Vista, Wednesday, May 26, 2-4 p.m., CDPHE vaccine bus with J&J and Pfizer, ages 12 and older.
• Simple Foods Market, Del Norte, Thursday, June 3, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., CDPHE vaccine bus with J&J and Pfizer, ages 12 and older.
• Rio Grande County Courthouse, Del Norte, Friday, June 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., CDPHE vaccine bus with J&J and Pfizer, ages 12 and older.
• RGC Del Norte Annex (beside the Courthouse), Wednesday, May 26 and Friday, May 28, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Moderna vaccine, ages 18 and older.