Notes From Governor Hogan’s 11/23 Press Conference

Notes From Governor Hogan’s 11/23 Press Conference

On Saturday, 11/21, the state reported a new daily high of 51,510 tests completed. We have more than 230 testing sites available across the state and continue to expand operating hours and staff at community-based sites.

Maryland has now had 19 straight days with more than 1,000 new cases of the virus, including 1,658 new cases in the past 24 hours. Today Maryland’s statewide 7 day positivity rate is 6.88%

Hospitalizations have increased by 80% over the past 2 weeks. As of today 1,276 COVID-19 patients are currently hospitalized. 289 patients are in the ICU, which is the highest level since June 15th

Some hospitals in Western Maryland are already at their capacity limit, and 29 hospitals across Maryland are over 90% capacity.

Maryland’s average case rate has risen to 38.3, up nearly 36% in the past week. 4,293 Marylanders have now died from COVID-19.

A public health advisory remains in effect, discouraging any indoor gatherings of 25 people or more, as well as an expanded travel advisory advising against any nonessential travel to states with high positivity rates.

Limitations have been reinstated regarding visitation of hospitals and nursing homes, and Maryland’s statewide masking order remains in effect.

The vast majority of Marylanders and small businesses are doing the right thing by following safety measures and public health orders, but some have become more lax at the worst part of the pandemic.

Businesses and individuals who blatantly violate the public health orders and refuse to follow state law are not only willfully endangering themselves, but their family, friends, and neighbors as well.

In addition to traditional efforts ramping up drunk driving patrols ahead of Thanksgiving, the state is launching an “all-hands on deck” compliance, education, and enforcement operation.

Beginning on Thanksgiving Eve, state troopers will support local authorities with compliance checks, with a focus on educating the public about existing orders and protocols, preventing super-spreading events, and assisting in enforcement actions when necessary.

Effective immediately Maryland State Police will be operating a 24/7 phone line and email address to support local compliance teams in the field with questions regarding existing orders and enforcement.

Marylanders who see unlawful behavior are encouraged to report it by calling 833.979.2266 or sending an email to [email protected]

Both federal and state health officials are strongly advising against holiday travel. Celebrating is safer if limited to members of your immediate household.