Utah COVID-19 cases spike by 747 in a single day, infection rate hits 11%

SALT LAKE CITY  — The Utah Department of Health (UDOH) reported 747 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday. The infection rate spiked to 11.1%. UDOH reports one additional death. 

As of Wednesday, the rolling 7-day average for positive tests is 585 per day. On Tuesday, Utah’s coronavirus infection rate was 10.6% with a daily average of 522 cases per day. 

“We are currently experiencing a new spike in cases, similar to what we saw earlier in the summer,” said State Epidemiologist, Dr. Angela Dunn, in a statement. 

“It’s time to reiterate the importance of people taking these preventive measures. By wearing masks, physically distancing, and staying home if we are sick, we can prevent unnecessary death and illness.”

Related: Spike in COVID-19 cases linked to Utah County college students

However, COVID-19 related hospitalizations are decreasing. The number of those hospitalized with COVID-19 is now 115. There were 128 people hospitalized on Tuesday. The total hospitalizations from the beginning of the outbreak are 3,381.

Additionally, UDOH says the one new death was a male, over the age of 85, from Salt Lake County. He was not hospitalized at his time of death. 

“We learned from our experience this summer that wearing masks and practicing physical distancing, along with staying home when we’re sick and washing our hands regularly, can help slow the spread of COVID-19 in our communities,” said Dr. Dunn. 

How To Prevent the Spread of COVID-19Coronavirus

COVID-19 coronavirus is transmitted from person to person. It is a virus that is similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

• Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
• Don’t touch your face.
• Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet)
• If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities.)
• Get a flu shot.

Local resources

KSL Coronavirus Q&A

Utah’s Coronavirus Information

UtahState Board of Education

Utah Hospital Association

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Utah Coronavirus Information Line – 1-800-456-7707

National Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Commonly asked questions, World Health Organization

Cases in the United States