‘We’ve seen an uptick’ RI officials speak to COVID cases ahead of Thanksgiving

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, state officials urging people to 'not let your guard down'.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) – COVID-19 cases are on the rise again in Rhode Island, according to the Rhode Island Department of Health.

Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott with the Rhode Island Department of Health said on Tuesday there are 516 new cases in Rhode Island reported, equating to a 5.1% positivity rate. That’s the highest case number the state has seen in months.

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, state officials urging people to ‘not let your guard down’ especially as many people plan to gather in groups for the holiday, for the first time since 2019.

“Use this as an opportunity to encourage somebody who wondered whether or not to get vaccinated,” Alexander- Scott says.

Alexander- Scott says even with cases on the rise, she believes it is still safe to gather- as long as people take precautions. Officials recommend opening windows for better ventilation, getting tested before traveling, and wearing masks inside. Click here for a full list of where you can get tested in Rhode Island.

To date, roughly 13% of Rhode Islanders 5-11 years old have been vaccinated since the beginning of the month. Officials say that number is expected to rise soon, as nearly 60% of the appointments available for that age group are booked.

Officials recommend everyone 18 and older get their booster shot when they are eligible.

Governor Dan McKee said since September 105,000 Rhode Islanders have gotten their booster shots. 65% of those are residents 65 and older.

This is a developing story, check back for details.