PUEBLO — Emergency response agencies in Pueblo are following non-transport protocols as hospitals continue dealing with COVID-19 cases, according to the Pueblo Fire Department.
The department said in a Facebook post that these protocols advise patients with mild symptoms to stay home with guidelines on self-care.
"Hospitals are not set up to provide COVID testing to the general public. They may find it necessary to deny entry to some patients, particularly those with minor COVID symptoms for safety and efficiency," the department posted.
Colorado continues to see a rapid rise in COVID-19 cases with Pueblo appearing to be one of the biggest hotspots, not just in the state, but in the nation.
A recent New York Times report ranked Pueblo #2 in the nation for fastest-growing case numbers. And that record rise has really been testing the limits of the city’s hospitals, putting them into overdrive.
"Our system is still operational and effective. The guidelines are designed to help ease some of the stress to keep it working for the benefit of everyone. Many jurisdictions statewide and nationally have similar plans in place for this very situation," the post stated to reassure residents.
Pueblo Mayor Nick Gradisar extended the city's emergency curfew Wednesday through 5 a.m. Friday, Jan. 1.
“We are entering a grave period for Pueblo, our hospitals continue to be near or at full capacity daily, and deaths continue to rise. In November, the number of COVID-19 cases and deaths have quadrupled from October,” Gradisar said. “The curfew, in conjunction, with recent health orders, are the best tools we have to curb the spread of this deadly virus."
Like many other counties in the state, Pueblo County is in Level Red: Severe Risk on the state's updated COVID-19 dial. In these counties, indoor dining is temporarily closed, though takeout, delivery, and outdoor dining are allowed.
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