MS Covid-19 Update 3-26-2020

About the case count: The MS Department of Health currently updates its map and statistics each morning with test results from the previous day. Outside laboratories also report positive test results, which are included the totals.

Expanded testing statewide is identifying more cases of coronavirus in Mississippi. This morning MSDH is reporting 108 new cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi, with first coronavirus cases in Benton, Lauderdale, Quitman and Yalobusha counties. The state total now stands at 485.

As of and 11:45 AM email, the Mississippi State Department of Health also reports one new death form coronavirus. The case was a Rankin County male age 80-85 who had underlying conditions. He died while hospitalized. This brings the state total to 6 deaths.

Four new coronavirus deaths were confirmed yesterday, All deaths to date have been among Mississippians 60 or older, a reminder that strong protective measures are important for this age group.

 The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) updates reports nationwide cases of COVID-19 at noon Mondays through Fridays. Numbers close out at 4 p.m. the day before reporting.

Covid-19 statistics reported nationwide as of March 26, 2020:

• Total US cases:    68,440
• Total US deaths:      994

Totals cases reported in Northeast MS area by county:

Benton county listed its first case.  Calhoun, Chickasaw, Lafayette, Lee, Marshall, Pontotoc and Tippah counties in northeast MS had additional cases reported today.

COUNTY      CASES     DEATHS

Alcorn            0

Benton           1

Calhoun         3

Chickasaw      7

Itawamba       3

Lafayette      10

Lee               15

Marshall         7

Monroe          3

Pontotoc        3

Prentiss          1

Tippah          14

Tishomingo    0

Union             2

Tips For Older Adults and People at High Risk

People at risk for serious illness from COVID-19 are adults 65 and over and those with a chronic illness such as heart disease, diabetes, or lung disease. These people should take simple precautions at all times to limit their exposure to others who may be ill:
• Avoid all social gatherings.
• Keep more space (6 feet if possible) between you and others as you go through the day.
• Avoid crowds. When you do go out in public, keep away from others who are sick and limit close contact.
• Wash your hands often, especially after being in public places.
If COVID-19 begins to spread locally, you should stay home as much as possible. Having a supply of important medications and basic supplies can help.
• Full recommendations from the CDC for people at high risk