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 Monday, April 13.
Coronavirus Cases Exceed 3,700
According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, there are now 3,702 confirmed cases of coronavirus in Arizona. Maricopa County’s case count is more than 2,000.
122 Deaths Have Occurred Due to Coronavirus
On Monday, the health department reported that 122 people have died throughout Arizona due to the virus.
State Releases Detailed Coronavirus Data
A new state database detailing race/ethnicity, zip codes and hospitalizations was released on Sunday afternoon. The 85714 zip code in Tucson has the highest number of cases in the state at 64.
Sun City West to Close All Seven of its Golf Courses
The Recreation Centers of Sun City West announced it will close its seven golf courses on Monday. The decision was made to protect residents and employees as Arizona is estimated to reach its peak of coronavirus cases in coming weeks.
100 Ventilators Delivered to Arizona
On Friday, Governor Ducey announced that 100 ventilators will be sent to Arizona from the Strategic National Stockpile. These ventilators will help communities in critical need, but health officials say more are needed to keep up with the projected surge in cases across the state.
21-year-old Man with Ties to Arizona is the Youngest Coronavirus Death in Colorado
Cody Lyster, 21, became the youngest person to die from coronavirus in Colorado on Friday, April 3. He frequented Phoenix during baseball season as a Triple-A player for Colorado Mesa University. His cousin dedicated a mural near 15th Avenue and Van Buren Street in Phoenix to Lyster.
Valley Biotech Company Develops Blood Test Device for COVID-19 Antibody
Biolab Sciences, a Scottsdale-based biotech company, has created a new blood test that can detect coronavirus antibodies in only 10 minutes. Biolab Sciences has already started distribution to health care facilities throughout the U.S.
Goodwill to Reopen 21 Stores Across the Valley
Goodwill will reopen 21 of its 90 stores in Arizona and rehire 400 employees on Monday. The company originally closed its doors amid coronavirus concerns, but has now been deemed an essential business.
