El Paso records highest single-day increase in virus cases with nearly 200; 1 new death

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The El Paso Department of Public Health on Thursday announced nearly 200 new coronavirus cases and one additional death in the county.

With 197 additional cases Thursday, it marked the largest single-day increase in cases since the pandemic reached El Paso, surpassing the 151 new infections recorded on May 14.

The death toll now stands at 89 as health officials identified the latest victim as a man in his 40s with underlying health issues.

“Our hearts go out to this gentleman who lost his battle against this devastating virus, and to his family we send our sincerest condolences,” El Paso's Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza said.

He then added: “As I’ve said before this spike clearly shows that many people do not adhere to the warnings and preventative measures we have clearly stated. We must each acknowledge that we are responsible for our own actions, which affects our friends and family. Why risk yours or their lives?”

There have now been 3,069 confirmed virus cases, of which 1,059 are active. The health department reported 1,921 El Pasoans have recovered.

Hospitalizations increased by 15 on Thursday to rise to 106 total, with 63 patients in the ICU and 33 on ventilators.

Free coronavirus testing has been extended in El Paso County until June 12.

For a detailed look at the coronavirus data from the health department, click here.