New high

More new cases of COVID-19 were in today’s state report than any since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Indiana State Department of Health today reported 611 new cases of COVID-19.

That’s the highest mark thus far during the coronavirus pandemic, surpassing the 563 in the April 7 report. Reports since Sunday had all shown fewer than 500 new cases until today.

Today’s report also showed 41 new deaths, bringing the total to 127 over the course of the last three days.

Totals for Indiana are now 9,542 cases and 477 deaths.

Health officials continue to indicate the actual numbers are likely higher because testing for COVID-19 is still limited.

Jay County Health Department on Wednesday’s confirmed the eighth case of COVID-19 in the county, though that case was not included in today’s state report.

Delaware County continues to lead the area with 85 cases. Other county case totals are as follows: Darke – 55; Mercer – 13; Randolph – 10; Adams – six; Blackford – six; and Wells – four.

Ohio reported 623 new cases this afternoon, bringing its total to 8,414. It also reported 28 new deaths for a total of 389.

Marion County’s percentage of the Indiana's total cases continues to trend down, now at less than 35 percent. It’s share was as high as 45 percent in late March.

Lake County is next at 10.2 percent.

Coronavirus is spread through respiratory droplets from sneezes and coughs, close personal contact and touching something with the virus on it and then touching the mouth, nose or eyes before washing hands. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines encourage frequent hand washing, avoiding touching the face with unwashed hands, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and covering coughs and sneezes with a facial tissue and wearing a mask in public.

For most, COVID-19 symptoms are mild to moderate, including fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. Older adults and those with pre-existing health problems are susceptible to more severe illnesses.

This story will be updated after Ohio’s numbers are released at 2 p.m.