COVID-19 continues to spread at a staggering pace in Arizona. The state reported 4,878 new cases and 88 deaths Wednesday — both record highs.
The single-day record for new cases in Arizona more than doubled in just two weeks. Arizona had never reported more than 2,000 new positive cases in a day until June 16.
The percentage of tests coming back positive also is rising. One in 5 tests now turns up a new case, up from 1 in 20 in May, according to state data.
Gov. Doug Ducey this week acknowledged that the virus has become increasingly widespread since he lifted the stay-at-home order in mid-May.
“You can see for two weeks [after the state began reopening], pretty steady, and then we’ve had an increase in cases for the weeks following," Ducey said, discussing the data with reporters Monday.
The state’s ICU beds are nearing capacity with 89% in use. Public health officials continue to urge Arizonans to stay home when possible and wear a face mask in public to help contain the spread.
