City reports 3 more COVID cases; calls it an 'outbreak'

City officials reported three more COVID-19 cases late Wednesday afternoon, bringing to 12 the total number of new cases in town in the past seven days.

"Wrangell is experiencing a COVID outbreak," said the statement issued by Wrangell's emergency operations center. "There is confirmation of community spread of the virus. We need everyone’s help to stop this outbreak."

The three reported Coronavirus cases Wednesday are local residents and are in isolation.

The outbreak started last Thursday, with more cases reported Friday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, and then the three more on Wednesday.

Because of the high case count, the borough announced several changes in its operations, effective Thursday:

• The library will be open by appointment only and for curbside service. Call 874-3535 to make an appointment or request assistance. Email mvillarma@wrangell.com.

• All indoor Parks & Recreation activities are cancelled. The swimming pool will remain open but locker rooms will be closed.

• Cardio equipment use will be by appointment only and at reduced capacity.

• Racquetball, wallyball and pickleball are closed.

• Indoor facility and park shelter rentals are closed.

• Movies will continue at the Nolan Center, but there will be no concession service. Mask wearing is required at all times during movie attendance.

• Masks are required in all city facilities unless otherwise directed.

"Limit trips outside the home and consider using curbside pick-up or delivery of food, groceries and other supplies," the city advised.

"Further closures may be necessary if the outbreak increases," the city's announcement said. "Let’s work together to keep Wrangell safe, slow the spread, protect our residents, and keep our local schools, services and economy running."

The community has tallied 51 cases since the start of the pandemic more than a year ago.