While many states across the country have been flattening the coronavirus curve by following the recommendations by the CDC, there are still areas—primarily in the Midwest and the South —where the virus is still surging. According to a new USA TODAY analysis of Johns Hopkins data, three states set new infection records for new cases in a week, while two others have recorded a record number of deaths. Read on, and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus.1 MinnesotaAccording to Johns Hopkins, Minnesota reported 5,849 new cases of coronavirus this week, topping their previous record of 5,605 from the previous week of August 23-29. According to multiple outlets, many of the state's new infections have been tied to the Sturgis motorcycle rally in their neighboring state of South Dakota. 2 South DakotaSouth Dakota, home of the recent Sturgis motorcycle rally, is experiencing a record number of cases. According to the latest numbers, the state has added 2,432 cases in the last week, breaking the record set the previous week of 2,046 cases. According to other states, the annual gathering has contributed to their surge of cases as well. 3 West VirginiaThis week West Virginia reported an additional 1,114 cases, shattering their record high of 982 cases the week of July 5 to 11. According to The Associated Press, a number of those cases are due to an outbreak at Mount Olive Correctional Complex, which has reported a total of 143 positive cases. They also broke another record — total number of deaths. This week they added 44, compared to 36 the prior week. 4 Arkansas Over the last week, Arkansas reported 109 coronavirus-related deaths, breaking their record of 97 the week before. Per the White House Coronavirus Task Force guidelines, they are now in the red zone. However, Governor Asa Hutchinson isn't planning on reducing capacity at restaurants or closing bars as recommended. "If it makes sense down the road to put in more in restrictions, we will look at those but it's not something we want to do at this time," he said. "We're not seeing any connection to an increase in cases for those economic activities."5 How to Stay Safe in Your StateIn total, there have been 6.1 million confirmed cases and over 185,000 deaths in the United States. No matter where you live, you are in danger of becoming infected — as well as infecting others—with COVID-19. This is why it is incredibly important to follow the recommended guidelines issued by the CDC and endorsed by health experts, including Dr. Anthony Fauci—stay six feet away from others, wear a mask, practice hand hygiene, avoid crowded places (like bars) and try and stay outside versus inside. And again, and to ensure you can get through this safe and sound, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had Coronavirus.
