For the first time this week, less than 1,000 new cases of COVID-19 are being reported by the Mississippi State Department of Health.
Today’s report of 982 new cases brings Mississippi’s total up to 48,053. With the confirmation of 13 additional deaths, 1,436 Mississippians have passed away from the virus.
Hospital data for today is not yet available, but during Wednesday’s press briefing, State Health Officer Dr. Thomas explained that ICU bed usage is continuing to rise as 40% of Mississippi’s ICU beds are currently occupied by COVID-19 patients.
Governor Reeves stated that there are 272 ICU beds in the west-central region of the state, including the major medical centers in the capital city. As of Wednesday, there were just 2 beds available. The governor said that this issue is not unique to just one region of Mississippi.
In a threat of tweets last night, the governor outlined the data causing officials’ concern for the state’s healthcare system.
There are some people who seem determined not to believe any COVID-19 data—“It’s all fake.” I think that group is actually pretty small. Most people are reading, examining, and trying to stay informed. There’s lots out there. For transparency, here’s the numbers we’re looking at:
— Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) July 23, 2020
The number of active outbreaks in Mississippi long-term care facilities grew to 170 in today’s report.
For more data, click here.
