Positive COVID-19 cases are down across state, county

The positive number of COVID-19 cases appear to be on the decrease, according to Gov. Andy Beshear.

“We now think we have not only plateaued, but we are actually in a decline on overall number of cases, especially when you look at the amount of testing we’re doing,” Beshear said Friday. “It doesn’t mean we are out of the woods ... but it is really good news.”

There were 141 additional positive cases announced on Friday with five new deaths and 148 new cases on Saturday and no new deaths. There was a total of 380 new cases from May 24-May 26 – 141 Sunday, 122 Monday and 117 Tuesday. There were a total of three deaths over that same three-day period. These are some of the lowest numbers the state has had in weeks, but the governor did point out some labs were closed over the holiday weekend.

“We continue to be at a time where we want to keep going as we are still in a decline,” Beshear said.

There was a total of 10 new cases in Ohio County for the entire week of May 20-26.

Judge-Executive David Johnston said Friday that not all the results from last week’s increased testing, including over 684 tests conducted at the drive-thru testing at the park, have come back but that the numbers are very encouraging.

“I believe with the measures we are doing that we are improving. We are on the right path,” Johnston said. “Please don’t let your guard down though. Continue social distancing and wearing masks.”

The Memorial Day weekend saw an increase in businesses opening and lighter restrictions as the state continues it’s Health at Work phased reopening.

On Wednesday, retail was allowed to reopen with restrictions including social distancing and a limited number of shoppers. Funeral homes were allowed to begin holding services again with restrictions including 33% capacity.

On Friday, restaurants were allowed to reopen to 33% of their capacity plus unlimited outdoor seating provided tables are safely distanced. Groups of 10 or less were allowed to gather but social distancing is still recommended in the guidelines

Barbershops and salons opened Monday with restrictions which include limiting the number of clients, eliminate waiting areas, separate clients by at least six feet and face coverings are required.

In Kentucky, the total number of positive cases is 8,951 with 3,102 of those having recovered. There are been 394 deaths statewide as a result of the coronavirus. Over 193,000 tests have been performed.

In Ohio County, there have been a total of 150 positive cases with 100 having recovered. There is one patient currently hospitalized with a total of 14 ever requiring hospitalization. There have been no deaths as a result of the coronavirus in Ohio County.