Kentucky continues to shatter COVID-19 records as the state prepares to reinforce virus precautions.
It's become a familiar refrain in the commonwealth and nationwide: "the highest we've ever had."
Thursday's new cases topped 3,600 as all but eight Kentucky counties were classified as red zone counties, where virus spread is considered critical. But more troubling, Gov. Andy Beshear said, is the overall trend.
"Our top five highest days are all in the last week," he said Thursday. "This is exponential growth."
The state also reported 30 additional deaths and a positivity rate exceeding 9 percent.
The administration is hoping new steps — including statewide school closures and a three-week ban on indoor dining at bars and restaurants — will help get the numbers under control. Most go into effect Friday at 5 PM.
See a full list of the new requirements.
THURSDAY NUMBERS:
KENTUCKY:
- 3,649 new cases (highest single day total)
- 30 deaths
- 9.18% positivity rate
- 1,550 in hospital
- 358 in ICU
- 199 on ventilator
- 437 cases 18 and under
RED ZONES:
- 112 out of 120 counties are in the red zone in Kentucky
BLOOD DONATIONS:
- The Red Cross and Kentucky Blood Center are in need of donations.
- Supplies tend to be lower during the holidays.
- The Big Blue Crush at the Kentucky Blood Center ends Friday.
PLACES OF WORSHIP:
- The governor recommends holding virtual only services beginning this Friday and lasting for three weeks. It is not a mandate. Drive-up services are preferred.
