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CORONAVIRUS IN GEORGIA: What’s happening today -- April 6

Here’s a roundup of what’s happening so far today, April 6: (Click here for the previous day)

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[SPECIAL SECTION --> Latest on coronavirus in Georgia and around the world]

  • There are now confirmed 7,558 cases of coronavirus with 294 deaths in Georgia. At least 1,393 cases required hospitalization. The DPH does not track the number of recoveries because it cannot accurately quantify the number at this time.
  • Beginning April 7, Kroger will begin to limit the number of customers allowed in their stores at one time to allow for proper physical distancing in every store. The amount of customers will be based on the square-footage of each store.
  • “Kroger’s introduction of customer capacity limits is one more way we are doing our part to flatten the curve while operating as an essential business, providing our customers with access to fresh, affordable food and products,” said Mary Ellen Adcock, Kroger’s senior vice president of operations. “During this national pandemic, we are committed to adopting preventive measures to help protect the safety and health of our associates, customers and communities.”
  • The statewide judicial emergency has been extended until May 13, 2020. The Chief Justice first declared a judicial emergency on March 14 which was due to expire April 13. While under a statewide judicial emergency, courts are ordered to remain open to deal with matters that are critical or “essential” to protect the “health, safety, and liberty of individuals.”
  • An inmate at the Rockdale County Jail has tested positive for coronavirus. Three additional inmates who were in contact with the positive inmate were also placed on medical quarantine immediately. Three of the four inmates have since been released.
  • Fulton County becomes the first county in the state to hit 1,000 cases.
  • CVS will begin operating a drive-thru rapid COVID-19 testing site on Georgia Tech’s campus. At full capacity, the site will be able to conduct up to 1,000 tests per day. This is how the testing works.
  • Gov. Kemp names new coronavirus task force community outreach committee. It includes Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and CEO of The King Center.
  • Several school districts have spring break this week. Here are how the districts and local nonprofits are working together to keep providing food for students.
  • As coronavirus cases surge in Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp has issued some new guidelines on how to stay safe when you make necessary shopping trips.
  • Rescheduled dates have been tentatively set for 2020 Masters, while the TOUR Championship in Atlanta is moved to Labor Day.
  • Secretary of State Brad Raffesberger said he still plans to hold the May 19 primary as scheduled but is taking new steps to protect election security.
  • The Georgia Supreme Court has extended a statewide judicial emergency until at least may 13, encouraging all hearings to be handled via teleconference.
  • Having trouble emotionally with the COVID-19 pandemic? Call the free and confidential Georgia COVID-19 Emotional Support Line at 866-299-8938.