In less than two weeks, the coronavirus transmission rate in Rhode Island has more than doubled. It's now over 245 cases per 100 thousand over a seven-day period. Health experts generally consider the transmission rate a predictor of hospitalizations and deaths. According to the website COVID ActNow, the risk level in the state is very high.
Meantime, the Rhode Island Health Commissioner is asking residents to use hospital emergency rooms when there is an absolute emergency. Dr Nicole Alexander-Scott says too many residents are using the emergency rooms in non-emergency situations and it is stressing out the system. She is asking residents to do their research into their medical needs and use Urgent Care Centers when possible.
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