Oregon reports another big spike in coronavirus cases

by Associated Press/Report for America
| June 16, 2020 3:03 PM

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — The Oregon Health Authority reported 278 new confirmed coronavirus cases Tuesday, marking the highest daily count in the state since the start of the pandemic.

The previous highest daily case count in Oregon was Monday, with 184 cases.

Tuesday’s cases bring the new total number of people who have tested positive for coronavirus in Oregon to 6,098. In addition, two more people have died from the disease, raising the state’s death toll to 182.

Officials said the increase in cases is due to workplace outbreaks and “as well as potential spread in the community.”

An outbreak in Union County was reported this week, where 99 people tested positive for COVID-19, and an additional 119 people were confirmed positive for coronavirus Tuesday.

Officials said a number of the cases are associated with the Lighthouse Pentecostal Church in Union County.

For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.