El Paso sees highest single-day increase in cases, 1 new virus death

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Department of Public Health reported 233 new coronavirus cases El Paso on Friday.

That's the highest single-day increase ever recorded in the county. There have now been 5,217 total cases. More than 3,500 people have recovered, and there are 1,541 known active cases -- a new record.

The health department also reported one new coronavirus death. The death toll now stands at 126.

The latest victim was identified as a man in his 50s with underlying health conditions.

El Paso health officials said three clusters have emerged in an elderly care facility, a detention facility, and a health care facility. Officials didn't immediately provide further details about those clusters.

“We continue to be saddened by the ongoing loss of lives, and send our deepest condolences to this gentleman’s family,” El Paso's Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza said. “We are also alarmed by the spike in new cases seen over the last several days. We are still investigating these spikes to get a more comprehensive understanding of the source of exposure."

Health officials also said they are concerned about the increasing number of positive cases in young people. Data suggests people in their 20s and 30s are making up the majority of new cases.

Hospitalizations increased Friday from 108 to 118, there are 58 patients in the ICU, and 25 are on ventilators.

A complete look at the health department data can be found here.