Spike in Camden County COVID-19 cases could lead to yet another indoor mask mandate

BLACKWOOD, NJ – The Camden County Department of Health is considering asking county officials to reintroduce an indoor mask mandate as the B-2 variant of COVID-19 is on the rise.

County Health Officer Dr. Paschal Nwako says a mask mandate is “something that the Ministry of Health is considering recommending in a few days,” as the number of cases has tripled in the last two weeks with weekly averages now at 178 positive tests.

Dr. Nwako also said he believes the increase in COVID-19 cases is a byproduct of a jump in cases in North Jersey, which has now moved to South Jersey.

RELATED: The FDA approves the Pfizer COVID-19 booster for children ages 5 to 11

Stan Levonchuck from Stratford, New Jersey, went to Blackwood’s vaccine site to get his shots because he fears he could bring the virus home to his wife, who is battling ALS.

“I see the news and it looks like the numbers are going up,” Levonchuck said. “They recommend getting a new shot, so I’m here.”

On Tuesday, the The FDA approved the Pfizer COVID-19 booster vaccine for children ages 5 to 11 and Camden County says it’s ready to vaccinate children when the CDC backs the FDA’s recommendation.

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Even with the recently approved booster shot for kids, Levonchuck says he’s worried we’re moving back in the fight against COVID-19.

“I hope we do not go backwards, but in some ways it seems that it may be us. I think people are really loose in terms of restrictions. They want you to wear a mask and people do not wear masks, “he says.