‘Alarming’: El Paso sees another virus spike – 265 new cases, 1 new death, record hospitalizations
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The El Paso Department of Public health announced yet another triple-digit spike in coronavirus cases on Thursday morning, reporting 265 additional infections and one new death.
It was the second-highest daily case increase of the pandemic. The record was 284 just a few days ago on June 28.
“The consistent jump in positive cases lately is alarming," said City/County Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza, who attributed the majority of new infections to community spread and urged El Pasoans to take precautions.
“While the Fourth of July is fast approaching we want to remind the community that social gatherings of more than ten people are prohibited," he said. “Again, I ask you to limit going out, but if you must go out please practice social distancing, wear a face cover, frequently wash your hands with soap and water and if you’re feeling even mildly under the weather stay home.”
The total number of cases now stands at 6,389, of those 2,223 are considered active -- a new all-time high. More than 4,000 El Pasoans have recovered.
Thursday's latest fatality brings the death toll to 132. The victim was a woman in her 80s with underlying health conditions, officials said.
Hospitalizations have increased from 177 to 180, which is a new all-time high. There are currently 74 ICU patients and 30 are on ventilators.
For a complete list of the health department's data, click here.
