Confirmed virus cases in Oklahoma surpass 4,500, 272 deaths

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The number of confirmed cases of coronavirus in Oklahoma has surpassed 4.500 and with two more deaths due to COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus, the Oklahoma State Department of Health reported Sunday.

There are 4,589 cases of the virus, an increase of 99 from the number reported Saturday, and 272 deaths.

The number of actual infections is thought to be far higher because many people haven’t been tested and studies suggest people can be infected without showing symptoms.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

Various businesses, including department stores and fitness centers, began reopening Friday as part of Gov. Kevin Stitt “Open Up and Recover Safely” plan.

If hospital rates remain at a “manageable level” for the next week, Stitt’s plan calls for organized sports activities, funerals and weddings, and children’s nursery operations at houses of worship to resume next Friday.

Bars will also be allowed to reopen with diminished standing-room occupancy.