Gov. Andy Beshear announced 158 newly confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in Kentucky at his daily briefing on Saturday.
The new cases raise the state’s total of to 6,440.
“These new cases, they impact people of all ages,” Beshear said. “Thirty percent of all of our cases are between 20- and 40-years-old. When you look at 40 to 70, it is 46 percent of our cases. For those that think this just hits people in their 70s and older, that’s just 19 percent of our cases. It’s hitting everybody. So, let’s not let our guard down. Let’s make sure we are doing the right things to protect everybody.”
Beshear also reported six new deaths Saturday, raising the total to 304 (4.7 percent) Kentuckians lost to the virus.
The deaths include a 63-year-old man from Jefferson County, a 92-year-old woman from Meade County, and 76- and 81-year-old men and 90- and 95-year-old women from Graves County.
As of Saturday, 1,757 (27.3 percent) victims have been hospitalized with the virus, with 394 people currently receiving treatment in a hospital. Seven-hundred-fifty-eight (11.8 percent) people have been treated in ICU, with 226 patients currently in intensive care.
Over 86,900 tests have been administered in Kentucky, and 2,308 (35.8 percent) people have recovered from the virus.
Houses of worship can reopen
On Friday, Beshear previewed guidance to houses of worship on how to safely hold in-person worship services beginning on May 20. In light of recent court rulings, which allow in-person services to resume immediately, the state issued the guidance on Saturday.
“I know some folks are ready to get back to in-person services, but we must remain vigilant against this virus,” Beshear said. “Places of worship should strongly consider continuing to offer alternative services. My family will continue worshiping virtually.”
If Kentuckians worship in person on Sunday, Beshear urged attendees to be careful and to take the necessary steps to protect themselves and their families. The state’s complete guidance can be found at healthyatwork.ky.gov.
Beshear will not hold a briefing on Sunday, but governor’s updates will continue Monday afternoon.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
