the number of positive cases has steadily risen, according to the state’s COVID-19 dashboard. Currently, nearly 500 people are in COVID-19 ICUs across the state and nearly 300 patients are on ventilators.RELATED: Arkansas governor says he regrets signing mask ban amid COVID-19 surgeAccording to Arkansas’ data, 42.25% of residents 12 years old and up have been fully vaccinated.
The Mississippi State Department of Health also reported a drop in ICU bed availability. On Tuesday, the latest data showed there were 68 adult ICU beds available statewide.