Arkansas coronavirus cases up to 830, governor to wear mask

The number of coronavirus cases in Arkansas has risen to at least 830 and COVID-19 deaths increased to 16, state health secretary Dr. Nathaniel Smith said on Sunday.

The numbers are up from 743 cases and 14 deaths reported on Saturday.

Gov. Asa Hutchinson, during a news conference with Smith, said he will begin following federal Centers for Disease Control guidelines that a mask be worn in public when social distancing is not possible.

“I will be complying with that directive,” Hutchinson said. “When needed I will be wearing (a) mask and the first lady will be as well,” referring to his wife.

President Donald Trump on Friday announced the CDC recommendation that face coverings be worn in public to help fight the spread of the coronavirus, but said he is “choosing not to do it” himself.

For most people, the new 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.

The new cases in Arkansas include about a dozen people, both inmates at staff, at the federal prison in Forrest City, Hutchinson said.