- all individuals age 50 and older
- moderately and severely immunocompromised individuals age 12 and older
- COVID testing site at UM Shore Medical Pavilion, 500 Cadmus Lane Easton MD 21601. Drive Through. Open Saturday-Thursday 9 AM to 3 PM. PCR tests with results in 24-48 hours.
- Free at-home COVID tests via USPS. Every home is eligible for four tests and orders will ship in 7-12 days. Order them here
- The health department’s rapid at-home COVID tests are available through the Talbot County Free Library when inventory allows.
- Local pharmacies are getting at-home COVID tests in stock. It is recommended you call ahead of time to see if they are in stock before going to purchase them.
- The Health Department is testing at their test site at 28712 Glebe Road Easton MD 21601 Monday through Friday 9 AM to 2:30 PM. You can call 410-819-5632 or visit https://portal.ciandx.com/portal to make an appointment. Walk-ins welcome. No appointment required.
- **When taking at-home COVID tests, you can report your results here**
Talbot County Health Department is now providing “Booster” shots Monday through Friday – see the poster below for location and times.
Vaccine Information:
- What: Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J COVID-19 Vaccine
- Where: Talbot County Vaccine Center, 102 Marlboro Ave Easton MD
- Call 410-819-5641 for questions and appointments.
- When: Monday through Friday 10 AM to 6 PM, walk-ins welcome, no appointment required
- 5-11 year olds on Fridays, no appointment required
- Who: Anyone 5 years old and older
- Pfizer
- Anyone 12 years and older
- 5-11 year olds are now eligible for their Pfizer vaccine which is available on Fridays, no appointment required
- Moderna
- Anyone 18 years and older
- J&J
- Anyone 18 years and older
- Booster
- Anyone 12 years and older who is at least 5 months after their second shot
- Pfizer
- Mail can be dropped in the mail slot to the left of the front door or in the file box inside the lobby when the building is open
- Building permit applications and plans can be dropped in the file box located inside the lobby when the building is open
- Packages can also be left in the lobby
- Building Permit Applications and other forms can be download from the town website: www.oxfordmd.net
The staff is available by telephone and email, with email being the preferred method of contact for questions and permitting information:
- Cheryl – [email protected]
- Lisa – [email protected]
Town Office 410-226-5122 // Urgent Issues 443-496-1761
For police and all emergency issues dial 911
Information regarding town meetings and virtual links to participate can be found on this website under events and under government agendas.
Social Distancing protocols are in place and it is requested that visitors wear a mask when inside the town building.
- 75% 18 and over
- 15% age 65 and over
- 36% under 18
- 25% under age 12 5-11 year olds became eligible for vaccination only recently on 11/3/21)
- 65 years and older: 6
- 40 – 64 years old: 7
- 18 – 39 years old : 5
- <18 years old: 1
(total cases in past 7 days per 100,000 people)
VACCINES ARE READILY AVAILABLE TO PEOPLE OF ALL AGES:
August 20, 2021
Talbot County Health Department has provided the following information today:
In the past week, there have been 75 new COVID cases in Talbot County. This translates to a Community Transmission rate of 201.7 total cases in the past 7 days/100,000 people (“High” is >100).
There have been 192 new COVID cases in the past month:
92% under age 65
62% under age 40
22% under age 18
13% under age 12
17 hospitalizations, 65% of which were in people under age 65
The vast majority of cases and hospitalizations continue to be in unvaccinated individuals who are old enough to be vaccinated.
The Delta variant is now thought to account for 98.8% of new infections.
August 12, 2021: The Talbot County Health Department has reported that we have moved into what the CDC considers to be HIGH Community Transmission. The recommendation from the CDC for vaccinated persons in HIGH Community Transmission areas is below along with links for Talbot County Health Department daily testing and vaccines.
To reduce their risk of becoming infected with the Delta variant and potentially spreading it to others: CDC recommends that fully vaccinated people:
- Wear a mask in public indoor settings if they are in an area of substantial or high transmission.
- Fully vaccinated people might choose to mask regardless of the level of transmission, particularly if they or someone in their household is immunocompromised or at increased risk for severe disease, or if someone in their household is unvaccinated. People who are at increased risk for severe disease include older adults and those who have certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, overweight or obesity, and heart conditions.
- Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
- If you came into close contact with someone with COVID-19 get tested 3-5 days after the date of your exposure and wear a mask in public indoor settings for 14 days after exposure or until a negative test result.
- Isolate if they have tested positive for COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
June 15, 2021
ANNAPOLIS, MD—Governor Larry Hogan today announced the end of the COVID-19 state of emergency in the State of Maryland. As of today, Maryland has surpassed 6.5 million vaccinations, and the positivity rate is a record-low 0.82%.
“Thanks in large part to the hard work, the sacrifices, and the vigilance of the people of Maryland, we have finally reached the light at the end of that long tunnel,” said Governor Hogan. “Each and every one of you—your actions—have made this day possible. I am so proud of our state, and I’m grateful to have had this honor to serve as your governor. Thank you all for being Maryland Strong.”
The COVID-19 state of emergency will end in two phases:
EMERGENCY MANDATES AND RESTRICTIONS END ON JULY 1
All emergency mandates and restrictions will be terminated as of July 1. There will no longer be any statewide mask order in effect for any settings, including schools, camps, and child care facilities.
45-DAY ADMINISTRATIVE GRACE PERIOD THROUGH AUGUST 15
Thursday, July 1 will mark the beginning of a 45-day grace period, where certain regulations will continue to be relaxed to complete the administrative transition out of the pandemic. This includes such provisions as renewing driver’s licenses, winding down emergency health operations, and the moratorium on evictions related to COVID-19.
Governor Hogan has announced that effective tomorrow May 15th MASKS are no longer required in restaurants or businesses. Please be considerate of businesses and residents who are still taking precautions. Social distancing and masks are still recommended by the CDC for non-vaccinated persons.
May 18, 2021
Masks are still required on public transportation, in medical settings and in schools. You will still find many locations that are opting to continue COVID precautions.
It is up to the individual businesses and organizations to determine the need for masks and social distancing. Please respect their requirements as they legally have the right to ask you to wear shoes, shirts and yes, masks, if they so choose.
For Immediate Release, Easton, Maryland May 7, 2021
Talbot County and FEMA Host COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at Easton’s Elks Lodge May 11-16
The Talbot County Health Department in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is hosting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic May 11-14 and May 16 at the Easton Elks Lodge #1622 for individuals aged 18 and older.
Appointments for the Johnson and Johnson (J&J) one-dose vaccine can be made at marylandvax.org, the below links, or with assistance by calling the Health Department’s vaccination helpline at 410-819-5641. The helpline is operated Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Gov. Larry Hogan and FEMA announced March 29 that these mobile clinics are part of the nation’s first federal mobile COVID-19 vaccination units launching in the State of Maryland.
“We are excited to again offer the one-dose Johnson and Johnson vaccine to our community,” Dr. Maria Maguire, Talbot County Health Officer says. “After a thorough review, the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration determined that the J&J vaccine is safe and effective in preventing COVID-19. The brief pause on the use of the J&J vaccine was proof that the surveillance systems to monitor the safety of vaccines are in place and working,” she continues.
“This vaccine is a great option for many people — one dose and you’re done! And it’s never been easier to get the COVID-19 vaccine — you can make an appointment in advance, or stop by when it’s convenient for you,” Dr. Maria Maguire says as she encourages the public to share this information with individuals and groups who haven’t been vaccinated.
Though everyone 16 years and older is now eligible to be vaccinated, these specific clinics are open to people age 18 years and above because that is the minimum age the Johnson and Johnson vaccine can be given per its FDA authorization. 16- and 17-year-olds interested in getting vaccinated require the Pfizer vaccine, which is available through the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health and the state-run mass vaccine clinic in Salisbury.
Easton Elks Lodge #1622 is located at 502 Dutchmans Lane in Easton, Md. Appointments are suggested but not required. Walk-ins are welcome. Vaccinations available on a first-come, first-served basis. The mobile units are designed to provide a minimum of 150 doses per day. Hours will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Monday, May 11- Friday, May, 14 and Sunday May 16.
Registration links for FEMA Vaccine Clinics at the Easton Elks Lodge are as follows:
Tuesday, May 11, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3ttUBCW
Wednesday, May 12, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/2R1BbZ5
Thursday, May 13, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3bcBZRE
Friday, May 14, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3usNhZz
Sunday, May 16, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3xW9kKD
More information and resources about Talbot County’s response to COVID-19 is at talbotcovid19.org and talbothealth.org.
Vaccine Locations for Talbot County Residents
The information below is in chronological order with newest and most relevant listed at the top.
OXFORD VACCINE CLINIC – May 6, 2021
The OCC is pleased to partner with Choptank Community Health and the OBA to bring vaccines to workers in Talbot County who have not yet had a chance to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Please call the OCC at 410-226-5904 or go to their website and choose the link to sign up for a time on the dates below. PLEASE SIGN UP BY MONDAY, APRIL 26!
Vaccine maker: Moderna
Dates: Shot #1 Thursday, May 6th – Shot #2 Thursday, June 3rd
Times: Between 2-5 p.m. (slots available every 15 minutes)
The vaccine order must be submitted to Choptank Community Health by April 27.
April 17, 2021 Covid Vaccine Update:
For Immediate Release, Easton, Maryland April 15, 2021
FEMA Host COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic Restated with Moderna Vaccine
at Easton’s Elks Lodge April 20-22 and April 24-25
The Talbot County Health Department in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is hosting a COVID-19 vaccination clinic with Moderna vaccine April 20-22 and April 24-25 at the Easton Elks Lodge #1622 for individuals aged 18 and older.
Appointments for the 1,000 Moderna vaccine can be made at marylandvax.org, the below links, or with assistance by calling the Health Department’s vaccination helpline at 410-819-5641. The helpline is operated Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Information regarding second dose appointments will be given when they arrive for their first dose.
Gov. Larry Hogan and FEMA announced March 29 that these mobile clinics are part of the nation’s first federal mobile COVID-19 vaccination units launching in the State of Maryland.
“We are appreciative that FEMA offered us this opportunity with Moderna vaccine to help bring much needed vaccine availability to our communities,” says Liz Whitby R.N., Infectious Disease Control Program Supervisor for the Talbot County Health Department.
Though everyone 16 years and older is now eligible to be vaccinated, these specific clinics are open to people age 18 years and above because that is the minimum age the Moderna vaccine can be given per its FDA authorization. 16- and 17-year-olds interested in getting vaccinated require the Pfizer vaccine, which is available through the University of Maryland Shore Regional Health and the state-run mass vaccine clinic in Salisbury.
“These federal units complement the vaccine clinics that are currently operating in Talbot County, including those organized by community organizations, our local health care providers, and retail pharmacies,” Dr. Maguire, Talbot County Health Officer, said.
Easton Elks Lodge #1622 is located at 502 Dutchmans Lane in Easton, Md., with appointments required, and vaccinations available on a first-come, first-served basis. The mobile units are designed to provide a minimum of 200 doses per day and include cold storage for vaccine doses, staff office space, and generators. The site also includes parking and a mobile shelter for vaccinations. Hours will be from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 20, 24, and 25, and from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 21 and 22.
Registration links for FEMA Vaccine Clinics at the Easton Elks Lodge are as follows:
Tuesday, April 20, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3dkyjik
Wednesday, April 21, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3djRSal
Thursday, April 22, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3g9Sstj
Saturday, April 24, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3wXQ8vg
Sunday, April 25, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.: https://bit.ly/3g9Swt3
April 1, 2021 Covid Vaccine Update:
Maryland is now accepting registration for Phase 3 – everyone over the age of 16. Wicomico has ample registration slots available for the vaccine. If you do not have an appointment for a vaccine and can get to Salisbury, please register at the Maryland GoVax link below, after which they will contact you to set up an appointment.
March 18, 2021 Covid Vaccine Update:
The State has opened a Max Vaccination (GoVax) site on the Shore in Salisbury. Anyone in Phases 1A through 1C and now 2A ( 60 and older) can pre-register for this location now and will be contacted when a vaccine is available: More information regarding phasing can be found at this link: State Vaccine Phases
PRE REGISTER FOR THE SALISBURY SITE HERE:
All other local Vaccination sites remain open and can be accessed through this link:
Vaccine Locations for Talbot County Residents
More information regarding Maryland vaccinations, registration and locations can be found here:
March 5, 2021: At the request of the Governor, the Oxford Town Building will be lit tonight in Amber to recognize the more than 7,700 Marylanders who have lost their lives during the pandemic and to express gratitude to the heroes who have saved lives and kept us safe. Oxford Town Church Bells will ring out 29 times in remembrance the 29 Talbot County lives lost. Please join the Commissioners of Oxford and others across our great state in a reflective moment of silence at 6 pm this evening.
“One year ago at this time, we could not have fathomed the toll that the pandemic would take on each and every one of us,” said Governor Hogan. “On Friday, we will pause as a state to remember all those we have lost, and express our gratitude to the healthcare heroes and frontline workers whose many sacrifices have saved lives and kept us safe.”
Maryland to Commemorate One-Year Anniversary of First COVID-19 Cases
Day of Remembrance to Include Twilight State House Ceremony – State House Dome, Government House, Building Across the State To Be Lit Up Amber
A twilight ceremony will be held at the State House on Friday evening, and in coordination with local leaders, buildings across the state will be lit up amber. Members of the public are encouraged to join the ceremony virtually via live stream. (See the Governor’s Facebook Page)
The Talbot County Council will have the Courthouse lit in amber at 6 pm, will light 29 luminaries in recognition of the 29 Talbot County lives lost, and will read a proclamation in the record, which will be followed by a prayer led by Reverend Dartanyon Hines, SUMC, ending with a moment of silence. They are requesting Talbot County citizens take a reflective moment of silence at 6 pm in recognition of the lives lost due to COVID-19.
March 4, 2021: In addition to the Talbot County Health Department Links below, information regarding vaccine locations can be found at this link. Make sure you have registered with the Talbot County Health Department if you are over 65, but you may also try to access an appointment through these other vendors while waiting for contact from Talbot County. Vaccines are delivered weekly and our divided between the Health Department, Medical Facilities and Pharmacies within the County. https://maryland.maps.arcgis.com/…/nearby/index.html…
From Talbot County Health Department January 27, 2021
CURRENT STATUS: Talbot is vaccinating phase 1A and 1B.
Due to inadequate vaccine doses allocated by the state government to Talbot County Health Department in the week January 25, 2021, Talbot County will be unable to proceed to Phase 1C. Please note the health department is only given 1-2 days notice of its vaccine allocation for the upcoming week. The supply has been 600 doses/week which are fully distributed. This week’s allocation was substantially less than requested and insufficient to meet the current interest in our community.
There has been a very strong response to receiving the vaccine from the Talbot County community. This is great news for our recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. At this time, demand exceeds supply. As supply increases, they stand ready to vaccinate more people.
Phase 1B includes Talbot County residents aged 75 and older.
Interest form for residents 75 and older.
The next phase will be 1C. The Talbot County Health Department will announce when they are able to enter Phase 1C for adults age 65-74.
Interest form for residents 65-74.
More information can be found at www.talbotcovid19.org
There is also a helpline for those having trouble completing the interest form.
From Talbot County Health Department January 15, 2021
COVID-19 Vaccine Information:
ATTENTION TALBOT COUNTY RESIDENTS AGED 65 AND OLDER
CURRENT STATUS: Talbot County is in Phase 1A of vaccine distribution with emergency personnel and licensed medical professionals. If you or your office fall into this category and have not yet scheduled your vaccination appointment, use this healthcare form to sign up now.
Starting Monday, January 18, 2021, Talbot County will proceed into Phase 1B which includes Talbot County residents aged 75 and older.
Interest form for residents 75 and older.
The next phase will be 1C. The Talbot County Health Department will announce when they are planning to enter Phase 1C for adults age 65-74. Interest form for residents 65-74.
From Talbot County Health Department January 14, 2021
**ATTENTION TALBOT COUNTY RESIDENTS AGED 75 AND OLDER**
COVID-19 Vaccine Information:
CURRENT STATUS: Talbot County is in Phase 1A of vaccine distribution with emergency personnel and licensed medical professionals. If you or your office fall into this category and have not yet scheduled your vaccination appointment, use this form to sign up now.
Beginning Monday, January 18, 2021, Talbot County is ready to proceed into Phase 1B. Talbot County residents aged 75 and older who are interested in receiving a COVID vaccine are asked to complete this interest form.
HEALTH OFFICER UPDATE from Dr. Maria Maguire,
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – STATEMENT
Statement from Talbot County Health Department Acting Health Officer Dr. Maria Maguire in response to Governor Hogan’s Jan. 14, 5:00 p.m. announcement:
For More Information:
Contact: Tracey F. Johns
COVID-19 Vaccination Public Information Officer
Talbot County Health Department
[email protected], 410-924-7265
(Easton, MD – Jan. 14, 2020)
Dr. Maria Maguire, acting health officer for Talbot County, says the Health Department is ready to move to Phase 1B on Jan. 18 following Gov. Larry Hogan’s announcement on Thursday that he was accelerating Maryland’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.
Phase 1B includes assisted living, group homes and other congregate care facilities, continuity of government officials, high risk incarcerated adults, people 75 years of age and older, and K-12 school staff. Healthcare workers and first responders were in Phase 1A.
“We are only limited by the number of vaccinations supplied,” said Dr. Maguire. “We have the capacity to vaccinate everyone in Talbot County in a timely matter.” Talbot County residents 75 years of age and older must pre-register for their COVID-19 vaccinations on the TCHD website at bit.ly/talbot-75. The Talbot County Health Dept. will then
respond to individuals to schedule vaccination clinic appointments.
TCHD also plans to set up a call center for residents to schedule vaccinations, with updates announced through social media, on the TCHD and talbotcovid19.org webpages, and through public service announcements.
As of Tues, Jan. 12, TCHD had received 1,700 Moderna vaccinations. The Health Department requests vaccinations each week, and has been receiving on average 500 vaccinations per week.TCHD has administered 1,132 vaccinations to date.
From Talbot County Health Department January 8, 2021:
Talbot County Begins COVID-19 Vaccinations
What’s The Plan?
Gov. Larry Hogan urged patience at his press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 5, while also announcing measures to speed up the deployment of the COVID-19 vaccine. Acting Health Officer Dr. Maria Maguire echoes his advice, while also stressing that Talbot County’s plan is well underway.
The Talbot County Health Department has already begun giving COVID-19 vaccines to healthcare providers and others on the frontline of the public health crisis. Health Department staff are currently vaccinating first responders and have arranged vaccine clinics at private medical practices as the first line of defense, or “vaccinating the vaccinators,” as Hogan explained.
While doses of the vaccine are still limited in Talbot County, Dr. Maguire says the Health Department has a solid plan for distributing the vaccine. “Implementation is the most important piece,” she explains. “We have worked hard to make sure our plan is both efficient and effective.” Local health departments are working under the Maryland State Health Department vaccination plan.
For more about Talbot County’s vaccination plan, check out our recent Q&A with Dr. Maguire.
How many vaccines has Talbot County received and what is the plan for deploying them?
As of Wednesday, the Talbot County Health Department has received 1,100 doses of the Moderna COVID vaccine, though other facilities such as nursing homes and hospitals are receiving Pfizer vaccines. By the end of the week, we are on track to have administered more than 700 doses of these vaccines, and we also have clinics scheduled for next week at which the remaining 400 doses will be administered.
We are using those doses to vaccinate individuals in the “1A” priority group, which includes all first responders, vaccinators, and healthcare providers. Additionally, we have vaccinated law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, 911 dispatch workers, correctional staff and officers, and frontline judiciary staff in Phase 1A.
Any healthcare provider who is licensed, registered, or certified by a Maryland health occupation board or the Maryland Department of Health is eligible to receive a COVID vaccine in the Phase 1A grouping. Healthcare workers will be asked to provide proof of licensure or employment verification such as a work badge or ID to verify eligibility for the Phase 1A category.
After we have offered vaccines to all eligible recipient groups in Phase 1A, we will proceed to Phase 1B and continue with the established priorities. I anticipate we will complete our 1A phase by January 15. The number of clinics and vaccines we can administer, of course, is entirely dependent on the number of vaccine doses we receive each week, which is highly variable at this point. Our goal is to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as possible while adhering to the risk-based prioritization plan.
Where are the vaccines being given?
These initial vaccinations are being administered at closed vaccine clinics. Eligible recipients are invited to register for an appointment, and our vaccination staff coordinates the time and location with the recipients. For some of these clinics, we go to the recipients in order to maximize convenience, but we are also hosting mass clinics where eligible participants from a number of organizations may be vaccinated.
After we enter Phase 1B, we will start hosting vaccination clinics that are open to the public. The majority of those clinics will take place at a drive-thru location in Easton, though we are also planning clinics in other locations in the county and even a mobile clinic we expect to roll out in early spring.
How do I sign up to receive my vaccination?
Everyone who receives a COVID vaccine will need to register through the state “PrepMod” registration system. This is an online, cloud-based system that allows for easy scheduling and tracking of when and where doses are administered. This online registration system is secure in order to keep your personal information confidential.
For Phase 1A recipients, they are directly emailed the registration link by the health department. When we are in Phase 1B and may start hosting vaccine clinics for members of the public, a registration link will be publicized widely to the target audience.
For example, the first tier of individuals we plan to vaccinate in the Phase 1B category is adults who are 75 years old and older. We will share the registration link widely to the public when those clinics have been scheduled so that individuals may sign up on their own. The best place to look for the most up to date information on the COVID vaccination process is the talbotcovid19.org website and Facebook feeds.
Knowing that not everyone has easy access to a computer, internet, or an email address, we will also have a call center and will work with community partners to help individuals register. In addition, we will also allow “walk-ins” so that people may register on site. However, this will be again dependent on vaccine supply. That last thing I want to happen is for anyone to be turned away from a vaccine clinic because of a lack of vaccine supply.
How will homebound residents get a vaccine?
We are actively coordinating this now in preparation for when these residents will be eligible. Fortunately, we have a wonderful Senior Care program in the health department, and they are able to go to individuals’ homes to administer vaccinations. We are also working with community partners to help identify members of these vulnerable populations so that no one is missed.
Who should be concerned about taking the vaccination?
Because COVID vaccines are new, many people understandably have questions about whether they are safe or whether they should get one. These vaccines have gone through rigorous studies and reviews to ensure not only safety, but effectiveness.
The accelerated timeline to develop these vaccines was possible because so many resources were directed at these programs, and many steps which usually happen consecutively in vaccine development were able to occur in parallel or simultaneously. Absolutely no corners were cut.
Tens of thousands of people enrolled in each of the Pfizer and Moderna trials, and, as of today, more than 5.46 million Americans and 15.9 million people in 37 different countries have received one of these vaccines.
Extraordinarily few adverse events have been reported — literally, of the 5.46 million Americans vaccinated to date, only 49 have had a serious reaction, and all were resolved with appropriate medical treatment. The most common serious reaction is anaphylaxis, which has occurred in 28 people, according to the CDC.
This is why anyone with a history of a severe allergic reaction to an ingredient in the vaccine should not get a COVID vaccine, and this applies to very few people. However, considering that nearly 360,000 people have died of COVID-19 to date, for me it was a very easy calculation. When I was offered the vaccine, I eagerly signed up to receive it as soon as possible.
The main side effect for me has been a new sense of hope and, quite frankly, less guilt as a healthcare provider of bringing COVID home to my unvaccinated family. If anyone has concerns or questions, they should reach out to their regular medical provider to discuss the benefit of getting vaccinated and look for helpful resources both at https://covidlink.maryland.gov/content/faqs/ and the CDC https://www.cdc.gov/coronav…/2019-ncov/vaccines/index.html.
Additional information about Talbot County’s vaccination program can be found at TalbotCOVID19.org or on Facebook at TalbotCOVID-19.
For statewide information, visit covidlink.maryland.gov or text MDReady to 898211.
https://talbotcovid19.org/…/Talbot-County-COVID-19…kpp
COVID-19 Update 12/31/20 – 
With the New Year comes new hope, but we must still continue to fight this fight. With the anticipated travel and gatherings of the holidays an increase in spread was expected and can already be felt both locally and nationwide. The next few weeks will see an increase in both cases and hospitalizations locally. PLEASE minimize your personal interactions over the next few weeks to reduce your exposure, continue to practice social distancing, and WEAR YOUR MASK. As vaccines become more readily available, opportunities to receive them will be announced or provided through different organizations and for specific groups. If you find yourself in a group that has this opportunity, please take advantage of it.
County Emergency and Informational Links can be found at the end of this page.
MASKS or Face Coverings are REQUIRED by the Commissioners of Oxford (rescinded) and per the Governors Order: Inside all Businesses, Offices, Retail and Restaurants and Outside whenever 6’ of social distancing cannot be maintained, please be courteous to those around you by wearing your mask.
- Practice Social Distancing of 6’ in all public areas
- Please carry your own hand sanitizer or wipes
- Please carry water and a face covering whenever you are out
Town recreational facilities currently OPEN with restrictions:
While these areas have reopened to the public, please remember we are all responsible for our own health and safety. If you are of vulnerable and age and/or health, please consider avoiding public areas whenever possible or use the recreational areas at times when there are not as many others in the area.
OPEN and available for use with restrictions:
- Tennis Courts are open for Tennis – please follow posted guidelines and posted occupancy limits
- Basketball Courts are open for Basketball and Pickleball – please follow posted guidelines and posted occupancy limits for these sports
- Dog Park is open for use, please follow posted guidelines and posted occupancy
- Town Park and Causeway Park are open for fresh air and exercise – please practice social distancing of 6’ – for your own safety please wipe down any equipment you use both before and after use
- Contracted Portable Toilets are available throughout town – please use good hygiene – sanitizer has been placed at these locations, but it is in your best interest to carry your own whenever you leave home
- It is recommend that you bring your own hand sanitizer and bottled water when moving around town, along with a face covering for when you find yourself in a situation where it is not possible to maintain 6′ of social distancing
- Town Strand Beach – This beach is open for public use from dusk to dawn. Social distancing is required – 6′ between non-family members – if there is not sufficient room for Social Distancing when you arrive, please use a different town park for your recreation. The showers are on and recommended anytime your have been swimming.
- Town Office Building and Restrooms – Remain Closed
- Town Water Fountains Remain Closed – Please carry bottled water when you move around town.
The Town Office Building is currently closed to visitors. The staff will be available by telephone and email, with email being the preferred method of contact to:
Town Administrator – [email protected]
Assistant Clerk – [email protected]
Town Office 410-226-5152 // Urgent issues – 443-496-1761
For police and for all emergency issues always dial 911
Government functions continue. All Commissioner and Board Meetings are being held virtually and participation instructions are posted on the calendar located on this website.Town Office 410-226-5152 // Urgent issues – 443-496-1761
Thank you, Cheryl Lewis, Town Administrator ______________________________________________________________
Free COVID testing for Talbot County Residents is available through the Talbot County Health Department on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday by appointment, which can be scheduled by calling this number: 410-819-5632 – Residents who travel outside of the area should schedule a test when returning to Oxford.
WHAT IS CONTACT TRACING DATA. In addition to identifying individuals who may have been infected with COVID-19, Maryland is now using contact tracing data to find patterns of behavior, and to identify where and how the virus is spreading. The governor announced the following findings based on recent interviews conducted with COVID-19 patients:
- Higher-Risk Gatherings (Percentage of Interviewed Cases):
- Family Gatherings – 44%
- House Parties – 23%
- Outdoor Event – 21%
- Higher-Risk Locations (Percentage of Interviewed Cases):
- Work Outside the Home – 54%
- Indoor/Retail Shopping – 39%
- Indoor Dining at Restaurant – 23%
- Outdoor Dining at Restaurant – 23%
- Employment Information (Percentage of Interviewed Cases):
- Health care – 25%
- Other – Non-public Facing – 23%
- Other – Public Facing – 13%
- Restaurant/Food Service – 12%
Please see the following County Covid-19 link, which consolidates available information and directs people to appropriate sites:
Further information is available at these links:
Talbot County Emergency Management : https://www.talbotdes.org/covid19.asp
CDC COVID-2019 Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Shore Regional Health COVID Information https://www.umms.org/shore/patients-visitors/coronavirus
Maryland Department of Health Website: https://health.maryland.gov/pages/home.aspx
Talbot County Health Department Website: https://health.maryland.gov/talbotcounty/Pages/home.aspx
Talbot County Health Department Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalbotHealthMaryland/
Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Website: http://www.talbotdes.org/default.asp
Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talbotdes
Please follow the CDC and the Maryland Governor’s recommendations and mandates over the next few weeks. Social Distancing is a crucial component of reducing the impact of this virus.
As has been stated many times this virus, although mild in young adults and currently of minor impact to children, poses a danger to those over the age of 60 and those who may have compromised immune systems. In addition, the current risk of carrying the virus is much higher if you have traveled to or from an area with active cases and catching the virus if you have interacted with someone who has traveled. Because of these risks, we feel it is important that the community of Oxford take extra precautions.
The objective of the Governor, the County, and your local Commissioners is to slow the spread of this virus in order to not overwhelm the hospitals and to reduce community spread to senior members.
Thank you
Cheryl Lewis, Town Administrator
Below is the link to the Talbot County Facebook page and sign up information for the County emergency notification service.
Talbot County Facebook page:
https://www.talbotdes.org/facebook.com
For Talbot County
Emergency updates you can sign up for text alerts:
https://member.everbridge.net/1332612387832213/login
Maryland Emergency Management Facebook page:
Maryland:
For updates and tips all Marylanders should opt-in to #MdReady, a texting program that allows people to receive messages via text. To opt in, text “MdReady” to 898211 to begin receiving updates, tips, and alerts about COVID-19 and other threats and hazards.