ATLANTA — A more than 20 percent spike in cases overnight has sent Georgia's coronavirus case count past 2,000, with 64 deaths.
The most recently released figures from the Georgia Department of Public Health on Friday show the state has 2,001 cases, up nearly 22 percent from the 7 p.m. total on Thursday night of 1,643. More than 550 people remain hospitalized.
Fulton County has surpassed 300 cases alone, with Dougherty, DeKalb, Cobb and Gwinnett all reporting more than 100 cases each. Gwinnett County saw a big spike in cases since the previous update; the number of cases reported went from 79 to 102 overnight.
In a town hall broadcast state wide on Thursday night, Gov. Brian Kemp said it is up to all Georgians to do their part to help beat the virus.
When asked why he has not issued a statewide shelter-in-place order, Kemp said he has been relying heavily on the advice medical experts.
"I've gotten a lot of great advice, I'm making decisions based on that advice."
He also mentioned he had been letting local officials take the lead in their communities.
11Alive is focusing our news coverage on the facts and not the fear around the virus. We want to keep you informed about the latest developments while ensuring that we deliver confirmed, factual information.
We will track the most important coronavirus elements relating to Georgia on this page. Refresh often for new information.
MORE CORONAVIRUS HEADLINES