After recording a rising rate of confirmed cases, Montgomery County has extended the COVID-19 emergency declaration for additional 60 days, writes Jeff Ward for WFMZ-TV 69 News.

According to Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Valerie Arkoosh, 8.1 percent of the county residents tested positive for the virus over the 14 days ended April 8. This is an increase compared to 7.1 percent for the two weeks ended April 1.

“As our case numbers go up, so do our hospitalizations,” said Arkoosh.

As of Wednesday, at least 213 county residents were in hospitals with the coronavirus, compared to 206 the previous week.

During the virtual commissioner meeting held on Thursday, Arkoosh said residents have to continue wearing masks as well as maintaining social distancing to slow down the spread of the virus.

She added that the county has temporarily stopped use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine until the federal government provides further guidance. The county will continue administering the Pfizer vaccine.

Arkoosh also noted that some residents are starting to be stricken by COVID-19 fatigue and tempers have flared as some vaccine sites.

“It is never acceptable to yell, berate, or otherwise harass clinic staff,” she said.

Read more about the rise in cases and the emergency declaration in WFMZ-TV 69 News.