Monroe County reported 108 new COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, up from just 48 on Tuesday.

It's the first time the county has surpassed 100 new cases since May 23.

Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health Dr. Michael Mendoza is calling for residents to get vaccinated against the virus as quickly as possible, as cases continue to tick upwards.

"We are clearly and rapidly moving in the wrong direction," Mendoza said.

Earlier this week, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classified Monroe County as being a substantial transmission area for the COVID-19 virus.

"I cannot underscore enough the importance getting vaccinated as quickly as possible," Mendoza said. "This pandemic is not over and, without question, vaccination is the most effective tool we have in controlling its spread and reducing its harm – on our bodies, our mental health and our economy. Don’t just take my word for it. If you are eligible and unvaccinated, talk to your most trusted health care provider now. Do that today."

Mendoza and Monroe County Executive Adam Bello also recommended on Monday that all residents wear masks in all public indoor facilities.

"I urge everyone, regardless of vaccination status, to wear a mask in indoor public settings," Mendoza said Wednesday. "Additionally, I ask that everyone remember other precautions that work, particularly when it comes to gatherings with family and friends. Consider holding these gatherings outside as much as possible. Wear masks and maintain social distance as much as possible."

As the delta variant continues to spread across the country, many parts of the U.S. are currently classified as areas of high transmission. A map of virus data is available on the CDC's website. 

"We want to keep our businesses open," Mendoza said. "We want to fully reopen our schools. We want to keep socializing, celebrating and living our lives as we did before March of 2020. Let’s do everything we can now to keep this current surge under control, and send our case numbers back down."

The county's positivity rate is nearing 3%. 

Mendoza is also urging residents to consider holding gatherings with family and friends outside, and for guests to wear masks and practice social distancing as much as possible.