FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — COVID-19 infections among Floridians are adding up at a level not seen since July as the state on Friday tallied at least 9,000 new cases for the second consecutive day.
The Florida Department of Health reported that 923,418 people in the state have tested positive for COVID-19 since the pandemic began in March.
Friday's data showed 9,085 new infections, which is the same number as the previous day. The week began with 10,105 cases reported Sunday, and the monthlong trend of increases has shown no sign of letting up.
The last time there were two consecutive days of at least 9,000 new cases was July 31 and Aug. 1, records show.
The state on Friday also confirmed 80 new deaths linked to COVID-19, one less than the total reported Thursday. The fatalities listed on the daily statistical reports happened over several weeks but were just confirmed in the past day.
Overall, at least 18,110 people have died from the virus in Florida, official records show.
On Wednesday, mayors from South Florida and elsewhere in the state called on Gov. Ron DeSantis to boost the battle against the virus, with a statewide mask mandate and other measures.
On Thursday, DeSantis released a five-minute video message touting new COVID-19 vaccines that would soon be available to Floridians, calling them "the greatest rays of hope" for the state since the pandemic began.
