RI Reports Lowest Coronavirus Positivity Rate In Nearly 3 Months

CRANSTON, RI — The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) reported Thursday that the state currently has a 3.5% positivity rate, the lowest Rhode Island has seen in nearly three months.

The decreasing number of COVID-19 cases is a relief for the state, which experienced positivity rates of close to 10% just weeks ago.

"Today, Rhode’s Island’s percent positive is 3.5% — its lowest in almost 3 months," said Gov. Gina Raimondo in a Twitter post. "Thank you, Rhode Island. We’re on a good path. Keep wearing your mask, sticking with your household and getting tested often. The end is in sight."

Although Rhode Islands COVID-19 numbers remain hopeful, the pandemic is not over, said Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott at Thursday's vaccination update. The health department reported 698 new cases and 18 deaths on Thursday, bringing the total number of deaths statewide to 2,076.

“Our signs are all going in the right direction, however, COVID-19 is not going away tomorrow,” said Alexander-Scott.

RIDOH is also warning residents that being vaccinated does not ensure that someone will not get or transmit the virus and those who have received the first dose or both doses of the vaccine must continue to wear masks, maintain social distancing, wash their hands frequently, and remain vigilant.

“We are all going to need to continue taking measures to prevent the spread of this virus even after we have been vaccinated," said Alexander-Scott.