Positive COVID cases spike in Rochester and the region; reasons why unclear

Newly identified cases of COVID-19 are definitely on the rise in Rochester, the region and the state, but what's not clear is whether it is the result of increased testing of individuals who are asymptomatic or if it's folks becoming ill and seeking treatment.

Another disturbing trend bears out that it could be the latter as current hospitalizations more than doubled in the past week, now at 20.

Local numbers parallel regional numbers with Rochester now at 18 current cases, with Dover at 13, Barrington at six and Somersworth, Strafford, Farmington and Milton now at 1-5.

Meanwhile, Spaulding High was expected to open today, Rochester Schools Supt. Kyle Repucci told The Rochester Voice late last week.

Spaulding's lone positive case and four out Barrington Elementary School are all now listed as recovered.

Meanwhile the most severe outbreak in the state, at UNH, continues to dog health officials, with 42 active and 95 recovered cases.

Statewide, DHHS announced 53 new positive test results for COVID-19 on Sunday, including four under 18 and nine from Strafford County.

Two new hospitalized cases were identified, while there were no new deaths. In fact the state has seen just one COVID related death since Sept. 15.

Current Situation in New Hampshire

NH Persons who have contracted COVID-19 8,172

Recovered 7,403 (91%)

Deaths Attributed to COVID-19 439 (5%)

Total Current COVID-19 Cases 330

Persons Who Have Been Hospitalized for COVID-19 736 (9%)

Current Hospitalizations 20

Persons Being Monitored in NH (approximate point in time) 2,400