Federal coronavirus “red zone” of severe outbreaks expands to 21 total states

Florida on Tuesday hit a new statewide record high for number of coronavirus deaths reported in a single day since the pandemic began — 186 residents. And while there are signs hospitalizations may be leveling off, the virus continues to upend life there and across the country.

Nearly half of all states are now part of the government’s so-called “red zone” due to rising cases, including Missouri, North Dakota and Wisconsin.

Dr. Deborah Birx on Tuesday said hot spots threaten regions where cases are controlled.

“We can see the virus moving North,” she warned.

“What we’re seeing across the South right now is both rural infections, as well as small metros and major metros, simultaneously.” Birx said.

Now, Texas has changed the way it tracks deaths, revealing more than 600 additional victims there. One official with the state’s emergency management team echoed Dr. Birx, recommending residents wear masks, even at home.