By Deseray McKinzy

Jefferson County has approximately 8,644 coronavirus cases reported and 167 deaths since the pandemic began a year ago. Governor Hutchison announced earlier this month that Arkansas renewed the Disaster and Public Health Emergency to mitigate the spread and impact of COVID-19 until March 31.

Governor Hutchinson included in the renewal proclamation that this executive order allows virtual learning to be an option for students, telemedicine more accessible for state residents, and it allows the process of issuing emergency resources to continue through out Arkansas. These precautions help to keep residents safe while ensuring that they have the support and resources needed to stay healthy.

Jefferson County amongst surrounding county’s have continued to implement these guidelines to help prevent more cases from rising.  As of March 8th, their were only one confirmed case so far this week in Jefferson County.