OSDH: 1,244 More Oklahomans Test Positive For COVID-19; 8 New Virus-Related Deaths Reported

Eight more virus-related deaths and 1,244 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state since Friday, according to daily numbers released by the Oklahoma State Department of Health.

A total of 37,731 Oklahomans have tested positive for COVID-19 and the total number of deaths went up to 549, the state health department said on Saturday. OSDH says 69 more people were hospitalized with virus related symptoms since Friday.

So far, 30,282 Oklahomans have recovered from the virus with 1,095 more cases considered recovered since Friday. Health officials said recovered means the patient is not hospitalized or deceased and it has been 14 days since the onset of symptoms or report.

On July 15, Gov. Kevin Stitt said he had tested positive for COVID-19, making him the first governor in the country to test positive for the virus. He has since posted video updates of concerning his health and quarantine.

Oklahoma reported its first child death related to the virus on July 12. The child was a 13-year-old daughter of a soldier stationed at Fort Sill.

Shortly after the report of the girl's death, state Superintendent Joy Hofmeister recommended for all Oklahomans to wear face masks to allow the safely reopening of schools in the fall.

On June 30, Stitt wore a face mask and "strongly encouraged" Oklahomans to follow CDC guidelines pertaining to face masks.

More: Gov. Stitt Recommends Wearing Face Masks During Update Concerning COVID-19 In State

On April 28, Stitt said anyone who wished to take a COVID-19 test could do so even if they are not presenting symptoms.

Related: Gov. Stitt Presents State's Coronavirus Figures To Show Oklahoma Is Ready To Reopen

The state health department advises anyone with COVID-19 symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever or coughing to stay home and limit person-to-person engagement. 

Related: OSDH: 965 More Oklahomans Test Positive For COVID-19; 12 New Virus-Related Deaths Reported

The state coronavirus hotline is 877-215-8336 or 211. For a list of coronavirus (COVID-19) links and resources, click here.