Oklahoma reports new single-day record increase in COVID-19 cases
/For the second time in the past week, Oklahoma has set a new state record for largest single-day increase in COVID-19 cases. The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) reported 585 new cases Tuesday, an increase of over 100 from the previous single-day record of 482, set last Wednesday. Total recoveries have surpassed 10,000, but active cases are at an all-time high of 3,285.
There have been two additional deaths linked to the virus, bringing the statewide death total to 387. 1,520 Oklahomans have been hospitalized since the pandemic began and 315 are currently hospitalized.
The OSDH has launched a new testing site dashboard, which includes an interactive map and updated site contact information. They are requesting that individuals call test sites to make an appointment and confirm hours of operation before visiting. There have been 327,840 negative tests since the pandemic began.
Sand Springs currently has twelve active cases of the virus. There have been 70 total cases in the city with two deaths and 56 recoveries. Nearby testing sites include Expo Square and the University of Oklahoma Schusterman Center in Tulsa, and the Creek County Health Department in Sapulpa. In Tulsa County there are 1,032 active cases.
“I believe Oklahomans have handled COVID-19 better than any other state,” said Governor Kevin Stitt in a Tuesday press conference. He also requested that young people wear masks and be careful when interacting with older, more vulnerable family members during the Independence Day weekend celebrations. He also made it clear that the State will not be mandating masks in public. “We believe in freedoms. I will not mandate that in the state of Oklahoma.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are reporting 2,581,229 cumulative cases nationwide with 126,739 deaths. There have been 35,664 new cases and 370 deaths reported in the past 24 hours. Oklahoma ranks 36th in total cases (41st per capita) and 34th in deaths (36th per capita).
The World Health Organization is reporting 10,185,374 cumulative cases worldwide with 503,862 deaths. The United States continue to lead the world in total cases, followed by Brazil with 1,344,143, Russia 647,849, and India with 566,840.
