The number of fatalities in Georgia due to coronavirus is nearing 600, per the state Department of Public Health.
According to the latest report by the DPH, there were 15,409 confirmed cases of COVID-19 as of just before 2 am this morning. There were 579 deaths. In Floyd County, there were 120 confirmed cases and six deaths. Fulton County led the state in number of confirmed cases with 1,916. The highest number of fatalities was reported in Dougherty County, which has had 83.
The DPH typically updates their COVID-19 daily status report twice per day – at noon and again at 7 pm – in order to provide the most current numbers. It may be viewed online at www.dph.georgia.gov.
Any Northwest Georgian with symptoms of coronavirus – like a fever, a dry cough, or shortness of breath – may now be tested for the virus free of charge by the DPH. The following people who do not exhibit any symptoms may also be tested for free: healthcare workers, first responders, and other critical infrastructure workers that have been exposed to COVID-19; and residents of a long-term care facility or other group residential setting that is experiencing an outbreak of COVID-19. Eligible parties may call (706) 802-5329 between the hours of 8:30 am and 5 pm Monday through Friday to be screened for this testing.
The DPH is increasing the number of specimen collection sites statewide for COVID-19 testing. Dr. Gary Voccio, Northwest Health District Director, told the Floyd County Commission during a virtual meeting on Tuesday that some 500 test kits were headed to our area this week.