Marion County Officials Provide COVID-19 Update Post NCAA Tournament

COVID-19 cases in Marion County have started to plateau following a small surge over the past month.

During a COVID-19 update Thursday, Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett said he’s glad to see the curve start to bend back down in Indianapolis.

"Despite having hosted the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament and despite our population here in Marion County equaling all of the eight other surrounding counties," Hogsett said. 

Officials say other counties also experienced a spike most likely due to schools being on spring break. 

To date, only 21 percent of Marion County residents have been vaccinated.  Health officials said there are now plenty of vaccines and appointments available to anyone eligible.

The update comes on the heels of the announcement that the Indianapolis 500 will allow 40 percent capacity for the race next month.  Marion County Public Health Department Director Dr. Virginia Caine said she feels confident in the decision.  

"This is an outdoor event, which has a significantly lower risk of spread because it’s outdoors," Caine said. 

Caine said the health department worked closely with the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to develop plans for the event.