State reports 31 more deaths, 2,359 new cases of COVID-19

Arizona reported 2,359 new COVID-19 cases and 31 more known deaths on Sunday, as measures of hospital stress remained high but showed signs of moderation.

There were no new records set for ventilators in use, inpatient hospitalizations, ICU beds in use or emergency department visits by suspected and confirmed COVID-19 patients, according to Saturday’s hospital data reported to the state.

Identified cases rose to 143,624 and known deaths total 2,761, according to the daily report by the Arizona Department of Health Services.

Sunday’s dashboard shows 86% of current inpatient beds and 88% of ICU beds were in use, which includes people being treated for COVID-19 and other patients. Overall, 49% of ventilators were in use.

Testing so far has not kept up with the virus’ spread, although the state recently announced efforts to expand testing. During the past three weeks, cases increased by 108% and tests increased by 59%. Of known test results from last week, 17% have come back positive. A high number of positive tests means there is not enough broad testing and the virus is widespread.

Public health experts have begun to notice signs Arizona’s COVID-19 outbreak may be moderating, but more time is needed to know for sure.

Gov. Doug Ducey pointed out early signs of flattening at a Thursday news briefing and urged Arizonans to continue to stay home, avoid gatherings and practice physical distancing.

Most people who get the disease are not hospitalized. The state does not report the number of recovered cases, although it does report hospital discharges.