Governor dismisses concerns about surge in Arizona coronavirus cases
Ducey says state is fully prepared for "worst case scenario"
PHOENIX, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Governor Doug Ducey (R-AZ) waived off concerns about the state's continued surge in coronavirus cases during a press conference Thursday afternoon.
Statistics show the number of cases statewide has grown 89% just since Memorial Day. Yuma County saw it's cases climb 254% during the same time period. However, Governor Ducey says he's not worried about the uptick in numbers.
The Governor took issue with recent reports from the national media calling Arizona the nation's new hot spot for the virus. He also disputed reports that the state's hospitals are reaching capacity.
Watch Governor Ducey's full press conference here:
Ducey said the state's hospitals are no where close to capacity. He said his administration has focused on preparing for a "worst case scenario" and Arizona hasn't seen that scenario yet. He reassured the public, saying hospitals and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) have comprehensive plans for handling a large influx of patients.
With regards to the rising numbers, the governor said he and health officials expected the number of cases to rise as testing expanded. Ducey admitted, coronavirus is infecting more people, but, he said most of the cases are not serious enough to require hospitalization. He said he and state health officials are focusing their efforts on those in critical condition.
"This virus is not going away. There's no cure for this virus. There's no vaccine for this virus." said Gov. Ducey.
ADHS Director Dr. Cara Christ reiterated the governor's sentiment.
"We can't stop the spread, but we also can't stop living." said Dr. Christ.
Ducey ruled out re-instituting anything resembling a stay-at-home order.
"Arizonans have sacrificed a lot. They're actions have been outstanding." said the governor.
The Governor did say he and health officials are keeping a close eye on Yuma. He said the state is still working for ways to handle cross-border contamination. Ducey also said he's made it a priority to further expand testing in Yuma County.
