Oregon reports a record-high 1,225 new COVID-19 cases, 20 new deaths

The Oregon Health Authority confirmed 1,225 new known cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, in addition to 20 new deaths, both of which are record-breaking numbers in the state.

The total number of known cases in Oregon is now 60,873, and the virus has claimed the lives of 808 people, less than three weeks after marking the 700th death.

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According to Oregon Health Authority, the new cases are in the following counties: Baker (four), Benton (16), Clackamas (121), Clatsop (two), Columbia (14), Coos (eight), Crook (six), Curry (six), Deschutes (31), Douglas (21), Grant (three), Harney (five), Hood River (eight), Jackson (89), Jefferson (10), Josephine (13), Klamath (20), Lake (five), Lane (130), Lincoln (one), Linn (11), Malheur (21), Marion (84), Morrow (one), Multnomah (376), Polk (20), Umatilla (20), Union (eight), Wasco (eight), Washington (127), and Yamhill (36).

“Oregon’s 808^th COVID-19 death is a 74-year-old woman in Jackson County who tested positive on November 4 and died on November 17, at Providence Medford Medical Center. Presence of underlying conditions is being confirmed,” the OHA update reads.

These numbers mark record-breaking tallies of COVID-19 in the state — the largest number of both daily cases and deaths since the beginning of the pandemic.

Hospitalizations are also continuing to rise, with the state reporting a record-breaking 414 people admitted to the hospital on Thursday, eight more than the day before. Currently, 96 of those patients are in the ICU.

Oregon Health Authority

“I have heard frequently from those who have refused to believe this pandemic is serious if we aren’t seeing hospitalizations and deaths. Those hospitalizations and deaths are here and are only likely to go up,” said OHA Director Patrick Allen, in a statement. “Please take this seriously and do what you can to slow the spread: Wash your hands, wear a mask and limit the number of people you come in close contact with.”

The OHA also reaffirmed recommendations that Oregon residents stay safe this Thanksgiving by keeping their gatherings limited to the people they live with.

Residents can find guidance on how to respectfully say no to gathering with friends and loved ones from Oregon Health & Sciences University (OHSU), including suggesting an alternative like a phone or video call and sending a gift to express appreciation.

Thanks, but no thanks.

With COVID-19 rates rising, it’s safest to celebrate Thanksgiving with just the people you live with. Here are three respectful ways to say no if friends or loved ones invite you over. #OregonForward pic.twitter.com/tyYDXHqEt5

— OHSU News (@OHSUNews) November 19, 2020