Monday’s edition of Governor Andy Beshear’s daily COVID-19 update came as more cases crept into Southeastern Kentucky.

The governor announced 54 new coronavirus cases and 14 new deaths, bringing the total to 1,008 and 59, respectively.

More than 19,000 people have been tested in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

Around 3:00 Monday afternoon, we learned that Knox County’s first confirmed case is a police officer in Barbourville. The Whitley County Health Department also confirmed their first case and Laurel County health officials announced their fifth confirmed coronavirus case.

Governor Beshear brought up the state’s projection showing the potential death toll could reach 47,000 if social distancing is not followed.

The projection indicated the death toll could be as high as 13,000 if the social distancing response from the public is “poor.”

However, if Kentuckians follow the guidelines strictly, deaths could be limited to 2,000.

The governor did not provide an update on the amount of people who have recovered from the virus. As of Sunday, that total was up to 306.
The governor did announce that cabins in state parks will be used to quarantine first responders.

If you have any questions about the coronavirus in Kentucky, call the state COVID-19 hotline at 1-800-722-5725.
You can also find the latest information, including things you can do to protect you and your family, by going to our COVID-19 Information page.