El Paso shatters daily virus record: Nearly 400 new cases, 5 more deaths, almost 260 hospitalized

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- El Paso County recorded 393 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday morning, the highest single-day infection increase since the pandemic began.

The El Paso Department of Public Health also announced five new virus deaths. The death toll now stands at 144.

Officials said all but one of the victims had underlying medical conditions. They included four men, one each in their 50s and 60s and two in their 70s; a woman in her 60s was the fifth victim.

With nearly 400 additional cases in one day, health leaders were scrambling to try and determine the reason for the massive infection spike.

"Officials are investigating the source of exposure for the latest increase. Initial reports indicate the majority are likely due to community spread," said a statement from the health department. "However, portions of the spike appear to be due in part to additional cases among existing clusters in a detention facility and an elderly care facility."

City/County Health Authority Dr. Hector Ocaranza indicated that "more than 40 percent of the positive cases are made up of individuals in their 20s and 30s."

He also noted that "about 1 out of 5 individuals testing positive for Covid-19 are asymptomatic," meaning that they show no outward signs of infection.

There have now been 8,035 confirmed cases, of those 2,987 are considered active -- which is a new all-time high. There have now been 4,904 confirmed recoveries.

Hospitalizations also reached a new peak yet again on Wednesday, increasing from 246 to 259. Of those patients, there were 75 in the ICU and 29 people on ventilators.

Dr. Ocaranza stressed that the only way to slow the spread of the current virus outbreak is if El Pasoans strictly adhere to the state and local health directives.

“Again, I ask you to limit your interactions, and if you must go out in public practice social distancing, wear a face cover as mandated by the state, frequently wash your hands with soap, and water and if you’re feeling sick get tested and stay home,” he said.

For a complete look at the city's data, click here.