The Monday lull in news cases is reflected in the low test numbers and the positive test rate remains over 10 percent, double the 5 percent danger zone rate. The addition of 45 deaths, though not a one-day record, continued to reflect the severity of the spread of the virus in Arkansas as the death toll neared 3,000.

Advertisement

The governor chose to emphasize the hopeful news of the beginning of vaccine distribution, the first shot to a nurse at the Arkansas Department of Health.

“Today is a hopeful day. After months of work, a COVID-19 vaccine is in Arkansas, and the first vaccine was given to Sherian Kwanisai today. The FDA should approve additional vaccines soon, and we will be set to cover our long-term care facilities. Brighter days are ahead, but we must continue to follow public health guidelines. This virus continues to rapidly spread, and it’s up to each of us to do our part to slow the spread.”

Invest in the future of great journalism in Arkansas

Join the ranks of the 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts who know that the Arkansas Times is the go-to source for tough, determined, and feisty journalism that holds the powerful accountable. For 50 years, our progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock has been on the front lines of the fight for truth, and with your support, we can do even more. By subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be helping us hire more writers and expand our coverage. Don't miss out on the opportunity to make a difference with your subscription or donation to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Parental rights for same-sex parents survive Supreme Court challenge Next article Today’s news — good and bad on COVID front — and the open line