In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 1,346 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 204 were newly confirmed, the largest single day growth thus far. Eight new deaths were also reported on Wednesday, raising the state’s total to 71 deaths related to the virus. In an effort to help stop the spread of the virus, Governor Beshear and his staff passed a new executive order that will only allow one adult per household into stores that are still open, such as grocery stores and pharmacies, at a time. Exceptions will be made for single parents or caregivers for adults who cannot be left alone. In addition, a previous executive order was extended to allow pharmacists to dispense emergency refills for up to another 30-day supply. The Governor’s Office also banned door-to-door selling, and warned against any sort of mass gathering this weekend, including church services.
One of the region’s largest healthcare providers has seen a decrease in volume during COVID-19. According to numbers obtained from Hardin Memorial Hospital, the month of march saw many categories, including endoscopies, radiology, and emergency room volume present a decrease in patients. Chief Marketing and Development Officer Tracee Trout says that numbers were down in large part due to the cancellation of elective procedures, which went into effect March 18th. Trout says that regardless, HMH stands ready to care for the community. One aspect that the hospital has seen an increase in is births, with over 130 taking place last month.
Trash collection around the area has seen a change. Hardin County Government has announced that all trash must be placed in a trash bag that is tied shut, and placed in a receptacle. In a statement, Hardin County Solid Waste Director Stephanie Givens said that the change was made in an effort to protect the health and safety of sanitation workers amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Givens also said that trash that is not bagged and placed in a can will not be picked up. Those with large items can still take them for drop-off at the Pearl Hollow Landfill.
