An additional 14 cases of COVID-19 were confirmed by Marion County Public Health on Wednesday.

There are currently 80 active cases and 497 recoveries from the virus. Marion County Public Health Director Kim Dorn reminds anyone who has tested positive to stay home when contract tracers ask them to do so, until a release date has been provided, and to truly stay isolated at home, even if asymptomatic.

“They need to really isolate, not hang out in the living room with other family members watching TV, wander through the kitchen,” she says. “They need to remain in their own section of the house, or own bathroom if possible. There are some difficulties associated with this, like when the person who is positive is asymptomatic and feels just fine or if there are young children.”

Dorn emphasizes that even though there are still activities and gatherings occurring, Marion County Public Health reminds everyone to keep their distance whenever possible.

“We continue to ask people to avoid large groups and groups in locations where people tend to let their guard down and get closer than the recommended six feet from one another. Keep your tribe small, and now “your people” and where they have been,” She says. “Wash hands, cover cough, wear mask if you can’t properly socially distance, and stay home if you are sick, as well as if you have tested positive, and you just feel sniffly or feel fine.”

The 14-day average positivity rate is at 15.4% locally, and two fatalities were reported due to COVID-19 last week. There are 12 Marion County residents hospitalized with the virus.