Tennessee reports largest daily increase in coronavirus cases

This electron microscope image made available and color-enhanced by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Integrated Research Facility in Fort Detrick, Md., shows Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, orange, isolated from a patient. (NIAID/National Institutes of Health via AP)
This electron microscope image made available and color-enhanced by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Integrated Research Facility in Fort Detrick, Md., shows Novel Coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, orange, isolated from a patient. (NIAID/National Institutes of Health via AP)

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - Tennessee on Friday reported its biggest single-day increase in positive COVID-19 cases since the new coronavirus pandemic began in March.

The one-day total of nearly 1,200 people testing positive narrowly tops the day in May that a slew of results came in from prisoners at Trousdale Turner Correctional Center, where nearly 1,300 inmates and 50 workers ultimately tested positive.

In all, Tennessee's health department has reported more than 34,000 cases and 515 deaths. The state noted that it added more than 15,000 tests conducted since Thursday.

In Shelby County, which includes Memphis, the sheriff's office reported Friday that 162 jail detainees and 75 employees have tested positive for COVID-19.

Two detainees are in isolation at the Shelby County Jail. The other 160 have recovered, the sheriff's office said on Twitter.

Meanwhile, health officials said a long-term senior care facility in Davidson County, which includes Nashville, reported 45 new cases this week. Shelby County health officials have reported 64 deaths in facilities such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Memphis and Nashville, the state's two largest cities, have delayed moving forward with opening more businesses and increasing capacities at restaurants and retail stores due to rises in new cases and hospitalizations.

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