'A Marked Improvement': RI's Coronavirus Data Improves Over Month

PROVIDENCE, RI — Rhode Island's coronavirus data trends have greatly improved over the past four weeks, Department of Health Director Nicole Alexander-Scott said Friday. Despite these improvements, it's now more important than ever for residents to remain vigilant, she said, especially after potential holiday gatherings.

"[We're seeing] marked improvement from where we were a month ago," she said.

This time last month, Rhode Island was in the grip of its worst coronavirus peak to date, potentially weeks away from overwhelming its health care system. Since then, all three key indicators — percent positivity, new cases per 100,000 people and new hospitalizations — have declined.

However, it's still vital for Rhode Islanders to wear masks, practice social distancing, avoid social gatherings and wash their hands frequently to prevent another spike in cases, Alexander-Scott said.

"This virus is still incredibly dangerous," she said. "We all need to continue following rules to save lives and protect our hospitals."

To underscore her point, Alexander-Scott reminded Rhode Islanders that more than 230 people have died in the state in just the first two weeks of 2021.

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