Sevier County COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations and Deaths Increasing

COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations among Sevier County residents are trending upward again, with a surge in deaths reported this month.

Over the last 14 days, Sevier County averaged 19.6 new cases reported per day among residents, compared to 14.5 cases during the previous 14-day period. There are currently 212 active cases.

Four Sevier County residents died as a result of COVID-19 since October 1, surpassing the number of deaths for the whole month of September, and bringing the total to 19.

Cases had been trending steadily downward since Sevier County Mayor Larry Waters issued a mask mandate for indoor public spaces beginning July 10, which he extended through October 30.

However, tourism is rebounding after the coronavirus shutdown with visitors flocking to the area to experience fall colors in the Smokies, historically one of the busiest times of year. The park set monthly visitation records in June, July, and August in 2020.

Traffic is heavy, restaurants are open for indoor dining and inside area stores, the number of people wearing masks or face coverings has declined despite signs requiring them posted at store entrances. Cases among tourists from outside the county and outside the state are not included in the Sevier County totals.

The Walmart Supercenter in Sevierville recently closed for an extended cleaning by a third-party contractor as part of the store’s efforts to reduce spread of the coronavirus.

The Sevier County Health Department, located at 709 Middle Creek Road in Sevierville, offers free COVID-19 testing from 8 a.m.–12:30 P.M. on Monday through Friday. The drive through testing area is behind the agency’s building. No appointment is necessary.