Photo – Abigail Dollins /The Argus Leader via AP
PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – South Dakota health officials say they have not seen an uptick in community spread of the coronavirus after thousands of people gathered for Independence Day celebrations in the western part of the state.
Gov. Kristi Noem has encouraged public gatherings in recent weeks, most famously hosting President Trump for a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore July 3rd without social distancing and only a handful of participants wearing masks.
Noem also pushed for a Professional Bull Riders competition that allowed fans into a Sioux Falls arena this past weekend and took part in it by carrying the American flag on horseback during the opening ceremony.
The latest coronavirus report Monday morning showed just 25 new coronavirus cases total of 7,524 positive cases with 872 active cases – 63 currently hospitalized with 742 having been in at some point. There were no new deaths so that total stays at 109.
Wyoming reported 39 new lab-confirmed cases Monday to bring the state total to 1,545 with another 359 probable cases and 1,131 recoveries. No new deaths keeps the total at 21.