OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The number of newly reported coronavirus cases in Oklahoma on Saturday more than doubled the previous one-day record and the state Department of Health said a backlog of cases and possibly duplicate reporting is the reason.
There were 4,741 new cases, bringing the total to 136,492 since the pandemic began, the department said. The previous one-day record of 2,101 new cases was recorded Thursday as cases in the state have surged in recent weeks.
“We have reason to believe that our normal case count would have continued on an upward trajectory without the backlog and duplication,” which is due to a transition from a manual to electronic reporting system, according to a health department statement.
In a statement, Gov. Kevin Stitt, called on residents to wash hands often, socially distance and voluntarily wear masks at indoor public places.
“Oklahomans pulled together back in April so we could safely reopen our economy, and I am asking for that same unified effort once again to slow the spread of this virus and keep Oklahomans safe,” Stitt said.
The health department reported 1,045 people hospitalized either with the virus or under investigation, the fourth consecutive day of more than 1,000 hospitalizations in the state.
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