According to NPR, the first U.S case of the coronavirus was identified in Washington state on Jan. 21. Since the, the infectious disease has forced its way into the consciousness of every human being in the country.
As of Monday evening, according to a New York Times database, there has been a total of 4,402 reported cases of the virus–with 86 total deaths. The data comes from both state and local health agencies, hospitals, and the C.D.C.
Below is a breakdown of the states most affected. Along with information unique to those specific states.
In recent weeks, New York has jumped to the top in terms of most cases reported in the U.S with 950.
Since announcing its first case on March 1, patients are being treated in Westchester County, several New York City boroughs, Long Island and a dozen other counties.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo has continued to warn that intensive care units would soon be full. Asking President Trump to send the Army Corps of Engineers to alter university dorms and other buildings in order to house those patients.
In Washington State, where there are 786 cases reported, there are 48 deaths. This state alone makes up half of the total deaths in the country.
However, according to the New York Times, among the poeple who have died in the U.S, almost all have been in their 70s, 80s or 90s. The youngest reported death is a man in his 40s.
With more and more people receiving the proper tests, the number of postitive cases will continue to go up and states are taking drastic measures to slow down the spread–Illinois being one of them.
As reported by the Chicago Tribune, Gov. J.B. Pritzker ordered on Monday that gatherings of 50 or more people are to be canceled. This comes after the CDC released new guidelines for the virus as reported by CNN.
This order applies to gyms, fitness centers, bowling alleys, private clubs and theaters. However, It doesn’t apply to essential areas such as grocery stores, hospitals, pharmacies, gas stations banks or shelters.
States around the country will try to do there part in stopping the spread of the virus. But you can do your part as well.
According to the CDC, the best way to prevent illness is to clean your hands often, practice social distancing and avoid close contact, and cover both coughs and sneezes.
To keep yourself updated on the number of reported cases and those impacted by the coronavirus, continue to follow this great map created by the New York Times.
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