New daily record set as virus cases surge in Arkansas

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LITTLE ROCK – Arkansas added a one-day record of more than 700 cases of COVID-19 on Friday and set a new daily record for the number of community-spread cases of the virus according to Gov. Asa Hutchinson said Friday.

Arkansas also saw six more deaths, bringing the total to 214.

Of the 703 new cases, 41 were in correctional facilities and the rest were in the community, setting a daily record, Hutchinson said.

The actual number of people who have contracted the virus is likely higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected and not feel sick.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal.

Also Friday, Hutchinson said emergency medical technicians and parademics will be receiving extra payments for their work during the pandemic.

Hutchinson said about $12 million in federal money was approved for the extra payments, which will go to employers and then passed along to employees.

The payments range from $125 per week to $250 per week based on hours worked in April and May.

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