August 7, 2020 - 100,000 Milestone
100,000 Milestone
August 7, 2020
With 1,709 additional cases (incl. 284 probables), our overall total now stands at 98,301 cases (incl. 3,474 probables). Fourteen states have reported more cases than Alabama but only 6 states (La, Ariz, Fla, NY, Miss and NJ) have seen more cases as a percentage of population. We almost certainly will surpass the 100,000 milestone this weekend.
With 21 deaths (incl. 1 probable), our overall deaths stand at 1,735 (incl. 61 probables). Twenty-one states have suffered more deaths than we have and 17 have endured more deaths as a percentage of population. Our death totals are lower relative to our total cases, which is due, in large part, to the lessons learned from observing treatment in those states that were afflicted first.
There were also 9,348 tests reported today, which places us 25th in the nation in total tests and 33rd for tests as a percentage of population. Taking into account today’s data, our 7-day average positivity rate is 17.72%, which places us 2nd or 3rd in the nation in that important category, which measures positive cases as a percentage of tests performed.
You might have noticed that the number of “probable” cases is rising relative to confirmed cases. On July 17, I wrote about “probable” cases and explained why I believe it is important to include such probable cases in overall totals. The CDC has recommended that “probables” be counted. Johns Hopkins has followed the CDC recommendation when presenting its data and most states have followed suit. Regrettably, although ADPH reports probable cases separately, those cases are not included in ADPH’s calculation of positivity rates. That is why my calculation of positivity rate is generally higher than what you may see on the ADPH dashboard and BamaTracker.
Finally, schools will reopen across Alabama over the next two weeks. Some will open in-person, others virtually, and still others using a hybrid approach. Parents will be asked to make heart-wrenching decisions affecting their children based on limited information. There will be no easy answers. I hope and pray that everyone finds a way to walk humbly, demonstrate patience, and embrace compassion as we enter this national experiment together. Here are the totals:
7/25 - 2,125
7/26 - 1,164
7/27 - 1,821
7/28 - 1,251
7/29 - 1,416
7/30 - 1,980
7/31 - 1,961
8/1 - 1,646
8/2 - 2,095
8/3 - 1,217
8/4 - 1,041
8/5 - 952
8/6 - 1,938
8/7 - 1,709
Twenty-seven counties saw an increase in their 14-day positivity rates while 40 saw a decline. Jefferson (257) had the most cases, followed by Mobile (145), Madison (89) and Montgomery (72).