Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear reported 1,972 new cases of COVID-19 Monday, on the day that a wreath-laying ceremony in remembrance of the over 2,000 people who have died due to the virus.
With 10 new deaths reported, that total increased up to 2,082 since the pandemic began, with Governor Beshear saying that represents thousands of families who are mourning those who won’t be with them for Christmas this year.
The overall total of cases is now up to 202,592, and the positivity rate is at 9.60 percent. This is the last week of the executive order that set new restrictions against restaurants and gyms, and Governor Beshear says he doesn’t expect to extend it, so he’s asking everyone to give it their all.
Public Health Commissioner Dr. Steven Stack urged everyone to remain patient as the world works to distribute vaccines not just in Kentucky, but everywhere.
Governor Beshear says it’s looking more likely that Kentucky will receive more vaccines than originally expected during December, and they’re working to get those out to high risk groups, such as long term care citizens and staff, health care workers and more as soon as possible. Kentucky has administered nearly 3 million COVID-19 tests.
The Tennessee Department of Health is reporting 8,136 new COVID-19 cases there, along with 66 new deaths. The positivity rate in the Volunteer State is at 18.68 percent.