Copyright © 2020 Albuquerque Journal
SANTA FE – State health officials reported seven more coronavirus deaths Tuesday and 88 new infections throughout New Mexico – including 27 in Bernalillo County.
The surge in cases in Bernalillo County stands in contrast to the longer-term trend, in which the virus has hit counties in the northwestern part of the state the hardest.
But Bernalillo County – home to Albuquerque – reported more than twice as many cases Tuesday as any other county.
The new figures, nonetheless, continued a trend of falling hospitalizations. Just 156 virus patients are now in the hospital – a 19% decline from a week ago.
The state’s death toll now stands at 447 people.
The seven deaths reported Tuesday include adults ranging in age from their 50s to their 90s. Five had an underlying medical condition of some kind, a risk factor for the disease.
The state classifies 4,217 people as having recovered from COVID-19.
Testing has confirmed 9,933 infections in New Mexico overall since March 11, when the first cases emerged.
New Mexico health officials are still encouraging people to stay home for all but essential outings and to wear masks when out in public, except when eating, drinking or exercising.
The state has been gradually relaxing business restrictions and reopening more of the economy since early May.
