Happy headlines are hard to come by these days. Coronavirus cases in the Valley and fear concerning the pandemic continue to rise, but there are silver linings – the community is coming together (virtually) in solidarity and local organizations, businesses and residents are doing the best they can to support each other. Our duty during these tough times is to keep you informed and updated, even if the news isn’t always uplifting. Here is a roundup of coronavirus-related news in our region for Thursday, April 2.
Coronavirus Cases Near 1,600
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, 1,598 people have tested positive for coronavirus throughout Arizona. A statewide test kit shortage indicates the number of those infected could be higher than reported.
32 Deaths Have Occurred Due to Coronavirus
On Thursday, the number of coronavirus deaths in Arizona climbed to 32. A dozen of those deaths occurred in Maricopa County.
ASU Requires Students to Move Out of Campus Housing
On Wednesday evening, Arizona State University sent an email to students who live in university housing to move out by April 15, unless they do not have other accommodations. The university is offering a $1,500 credit to students who comply, to minimize the financial burden of the request.
Hotel Occupancies Drop Due to Coronavirus Concerns
The hospitality industry is being hit hard in the wake of COVID-19. Hotels in metro Phoenix are experiencing lower than average occupancy rates during what is typically the busiest month of the year. Some resorts and hotels have closed completely, leaving thousands of employees without work.
New Ducey Executive Order Allows Arizonans to Refill Prescriptions Without a Doctor
On Thursday, Governor Doug Ducey issued an order that allows pharmacists to administer emergency refills of “maintenance medications” for up to two 90-day supplies, so Arizonans can avoid a doctor visit during the coronavirus outbreak. The order also allows companies to produce hand sanitizer without having a permit.
Safety Mask Prices Soar as Coronavirus Cases Continue to Climb
Personal protective equipment is being sold at a premium these days, with one company that sells N95 masks to the Phoenix Police and Fire departments bumping up their prices from $1 to nearly $6 per mask.
