Texas reports a record 129 new coronavirus deaths, 10,291 new cases
Texas recorded a single-day high of 129 new coronavirus deaths on Thursday, along with 10,291 new cases.
It was the second day in a row the state recorded a new single-day high for deaths. It reported 110 deaths on Wednesday, the previous high. New COVID-19 cases dropped slightly from the record 10,791 new cases reported Wednesday.
The state has reported more than 290,000 cases and 3,500 deaths, according to state data. It’s estimated that more than 150,000 people have recovered. The state’s seven-day positivity rate for testing is at 16.81%.
A total of 10,457 hospitalizations were reported Thursday, a drop of 14 cases from the day before, according to state data. COVID-19 patients occupy about 18% of all beds, and 10,759 beds are available. The state has 5,080 ventilators available.
About a month ago, there were 2,153 hospitalizations in Texas. Experts have attributed the surge in hospitalizations in part to gatherings and holiday weekends.
Gov. Greg Abbott told KRIV-TV in Houston that if hospitalizations and the number of people testing positive level off, “that means we have begun the process of containing the spread of COVID-19.”
“We are certainly not out of the woods yet, but this could be a glimmer of hope coming if people will continue the practice of wearing face masks wherever possible. The only way we can avoid a shutdown is if we do get everyone buying into this process of wearing face masks,” Abbott said.
Estimated active cases over time
Coronavirus daily active case estimates by local counties in the Dallas - Fort Worth metroplex, beginning April 8, 2020. Data provided by Texas Health and Human Services.
COVID-19 Hospitalizations over Time
Coronavirus daily hospitalization counts in Texas and the larger Trauma Service Areas, beginning April 8, 2020. Data provided by Texas Health and Human Services.
This story was originally published July 16, 2020 at 5:18 PM.
