FRIDAY, AUGUST 28: Five things to know about covid-19 in Arkansas – Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

As our state deals with the spread of covid-19 in the midst of a global outbreak, the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette will publish five things you need to know each week. Well be publishing these round-ups in English, Spanish and Marshallese. You can read our full coverage at nwaonline.com/coronavirus/. Coronavirus coverage pertaining to crucial public health information will be available for all readers.

Arkansas has confirmed 58,745 total cases of covid-19 since the pandemic began, according to data posted Aug. 28. State health officials also have reported 739 total deaths and 52,665 recoveries.

Despite a change in federal recommendations for testing, Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Aug. 26 encouraged Arkansans to get tested if they have been exposed to the virus, even if they dont have symptoms.

After school started for most districts Aug. 24, several reported they had to quarantine staff after exposure to the virus. Hutchinson announced Aug. 26 that the state is sending out 70,000 face shields to schools across the state one for every school employee.

The state on Aug. 22 reported a record number of deaths at 22. In recent days, officials have reported fewer new cases and reduced numbers of tests.

State officials said Aug. 21 that they had completed testing within Arkansas prison system. On Aug. 26, they announced that there were zero positive cases at the Cummins and Ouachita River Correctional units, where there had previously been significant outbreaks.

SPANISH: https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/aug/28/cinco-hechos-importantes-sobre/

Marshallese: https://www.nwaonline.com/news/2020/aug/28/lalem-men-ko-kwoj-aikuj-jela-kon-covid/

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FRIDAY, AUGUST 28: Five things to know about covid-19 in Arkansas - Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette