A state of emergency has been declared in Franklin County due to high COVID-19 transmission rates in the area, according to a release from the county legislature. 

The declaration includes a recommendation for all residents and visitors to wear face coverings, practice diligent hand-washing, practice social distancing and get vaccinated. 

According to the county's website, there were 263 active cases reported as of December 2, with the seven-day positivity rate standing at 9.69%.

At this time, 57% of the county has at least one dose of the vaccine, according to state health data.

The state emergency declaration will remain in effect until Jan. 1, 2022.