This browser does not support the Video element.
Gov. Ducey releases Christmas message to Arizonans
The Arizona governor encouraged everyone to reach out to loved ones who may be alone at the end of a rough year.
PHOENIX (AP) - Gov. Doug Ducey’s Christmas Day message encourages Arizonans to safetly connect with loved ones and thanks residents for their work during the coronavirus pandemic.
"I hope all Arizonans find a way to safely spend time with friends and family, celebrate their faith, and look forward to the New Year. It’s important that we take time to connect with our loved ones this Christmas, especially in a year as challenging as this one," Ducey said in a statement Friday.
The state reported 115 deaths attributed to COVID-19 for the second day in a row. It was the seventh time in ten days the figure has been in the triple digits. The death toll now stands at 8,409. The Arizona Department of Health Services reported additional 6,616 cases increasing the total to 486,935 cases since the start of the pandemic.
Coronavirus in Arizona: Latest case numbers
Ducey thanked responders, frontline workers, and volunteers who have helped mitigate the impacts of the virus.
"Educators have found creative ways to engage with struggling students. Parents have become at-home tutors. Neighbors have picked up groceries for each other. Truck drivers have driven hundreds of miles to ensure shelves are stocked with food and goods. Volunteers have worked double time. The list goes on," he said.
For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some — especially older adults and people with existing health problems — it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.
Get the latest coronavirus news by downloading the FOX 10 News App. Our promise is that our alerts are there to inform you - not scare you.
Nicole Stanton, wife of Congressman Greg Stanton, tests positive for COVID-19
Nicole Stanton said she is not feeling very well, and has lost her sense of smell and taste.
End of tragic year nears for Valley family that lost 8 relatives to COVID-19
2020 was definitely not a good year for the Aguirre family, who had to endure the deaths of various family members from COVID-19.
All Arizona counties seeing ‘substantial’ virus spread
Arizona on Dec. 24 reported over 100 additional coronavirus deaths for the sixth time in nine days as state public health officials urged caution to prevent the spread of the virus during the holidays.