Gov. Asa Hutchinson Update

State officials are asking Arkansans to be as mindful as ever of COVID-19 as they prepare to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July holiday weekend.

 During his weekly press conference Tuesday afternoon, Hutchinson said the state has seen a consistent increase in new COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths over the past month. Given the gatherings many Arkansans will host and participate in this weekend, Hutchinson cautioned everyone to get the vaccine if they haven’t yet or follow mask and social distancing recommendations.

 Hutchinson said the virus’ delta variant has caused particular concern as it spreads rapidly across the United States. Originating in India, health experts warn this variant is more contagious and carries more debilitating health effects.

 Dr. Cam Patterson, Chancellor of UAMS, said new cases of the virus, and the delta variant in particular, are trending higher among younger Arkansans and with more serious health complications.

 At this time nearly one million Arkansans, or around a third of the state’s population, have been fully immunized against the virus. 

 And finally, an update to the statewide COVID-19 figures on Tuesday as reported by the Arkansas Department of Health. Officials reported 479 new cases of COVID-19 across the Arkansas on Tuesday for a statewide cumulative total nearing 349,000. Active cases rose by a net total of 196 to 3,385 currently. Deaths increased by eight to 5,905 since the pandemic began. Hospitalizations fell by eight, leaving 306 Arkansans currently hospitalized due to the virus.

 We’ll continue to keep you updated on all the latest developments, both locally and from across the state and nation.