The Rhode Island Department of Health reported 40 new cases and 8 new fatalities on Thursday, bringing the total number of positive cases to 16,640 and the total number of deaths to 920. There were 3,141 tests conducted on Wednesday. (data/graphic: RIDOH )
State officials note that the number of coronavirus cases, deaths and hospitalizations continue to decrease in Rhode Island, while many states are seeing a resurgence in those numbers as they reopen their economies. In her Wednesday press briefing Governor Gina Raimondo issued a stern warning to residents, saying that if we let our guard down and fail to wear masks or maintain social distancing, Rhode Island could easily join the ranks of states trending in the wrong direction. The governor firmly stated that she would "shut it down" and reinstitute stay-at-home orders if cases and hospitalizations begin to increase, but said that it was the "last thing" she wanted to do.
Rhode Island enters Phase 3 of its reopening plan on Monday 6/29. New guidelines allow for dramatically increased crowd limits at businesses and social gatherings, but social distancing of six feet and the wearing of masks are still strongly encouraged. An outline of Phase 3 guidelines is below. Additional details can be found here: https://www.reopeningri.com/