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As we edge into the Fourth of July weekend, Covid-19 cases continue to surge in Arizona.
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As we edge into the Fourth of July weekend, Covid-19 cases continue to surge in Arizona. This past Saturday marked the third consecutive day where U.S. cases rose by more than 40,000. In Arizona, cases have risen by 250 percent for June.
On Sunday, June 28, the AZ Department of Health tweeted out a record number of 3,858 new cases, reminding the public to “always wear a mask in public even if you do not feel sick.” The department stressed maintaining physical distancing and staying home if sick.
Valley hospitals like Banner Desert Medical Center in Mesa and Valleywise Health Medical Center in Phoenix have activated their surge plans to increase capacity while continuing to treat the spiking numbers.
This past Thursday, Gov. Doug Ducey stated that the virus is currently widespread across all counties in the state. “The rate of the spread of this virus is unacceptable and it’s time for us to step up our actions and our personal responsibilities regarding this virus,” Ducey said. Ducey asked that Arizonans wear face masks, socially distance from one another and wash hands to slow the spread and reduce the risk of transmission.
Heading into July, Gila County has seen its own spike in Covid-19 numbers. As of Monday morning the state of Arizona is reporting 191 cases in Gila County with five deaths. These numbers continue to change daily as cases are investigated and confirmed.
Cobre Valley Regional Medical Center has tested over 1,200 people since mid-March. As of Friday, June 26, CVRMC has tested 1,175 people, with 126 positive results (12 percent) and 100 tests still pending. According to Evelyn Vargas at CVRMC, these tests include people coming from out of town for testing so these numbers are not going to match Gila County Department of Health and Emergency Management numbers.
To date, CVRMC has served 22 Covid-19 patients, with 13 released and recovering at home. There are several patients receiving Covid-19 treatment at this time. They have seen zero deaths as of Monday June 30, and have yet to implement their surge plan but are closely approaching that point.
CVRMC is taking every necessary precaution to provide a safe environment for their patients.
