May 19, 2020 2:23 p.m. — In today's COVID-19 briefing, Gov. Asa Hutchinson reported the state has 4,923 positive cases, an increase of 110 from yesterday. Of those new cases, 106 are community cases and 4 come from correctional facilities. The state has a total of 1,082 active cases. Arkansas has 102 deaths related to the coronavirus, an increase of two. On Saturday, 550 tests were conducted in Forrest City. Gov. Hutchinson says 500 test results have come in with 32 of those positive. Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith said the CDC has completed testing at the Federal Correctional Institution in Forrest City where 585 inmates and 17 staff members tested positive for COVID-19.
Gov. Hutchinson announced a goal to test all nursing home residents and staff starting June 1. He said that will result in 40,000 to 50,000 new tests. As of today, 192 facilities have 0 cases, 18 facilities have 1 case, 10 facilities have 2 to 5 cases, 1 facility has 6 to 10 cases, and 6 facilities have 11 or more cases.
The governor also announced allocated funds for enhanced payment of direct-care workers in nursing homes and long-term care facilities are being distributed. The first payments went out May 1. Payments, which are approved through May 22, total $21.8 million and are being distributed to more than 8,000 employees.
Regarding the state's PUA website, Gov. Hutchinson said he does not have a timeframe on when it will reopen. He said an email has been sent to applicants informing them of the situation.
You can watch the entire daily briefing here.
