Arizona reports 2,457 new COVID-19 cases and 26 more deaths

PHOENIX (AP) — Health officials in Arizona on Sept. 19 reported 2,457 new COVID-19 cases and 26 additional deaths.

The latest numbers increased the state’s totals to 1,066,803 cases and 19,513 known deaths since the pandemic began more than a year ago.

Health officials say people who aren’t fully vaccinated account for nearly all of the serious illnesses and deaths.

Arizona has had at least 2,200 cases daily since Sept. 13 ranging from 2,278 to 2,885 with the number of deaths per day ranging from zero to 117.

The state’s coronavirus dashboard shows that more than 4.1 million people (57.2% of Arizona’s population) have received at least one dose of vaccine with over 3.6 million residents fully vaccinated (50.1% of the population).

MORE: Find COVID-19 vaccine locations in your area

That compares to the nationwide rates of 63.6% people with at least one dose and 54.4% fully vaccinated, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

According to Arizona’s coronavirus dashboard, the number of confirmed or suspected COVID-19 inpatients in the state’s hospitals was 1,922 on Sept. 18 — a decrease of 59 from the previous day.

Meanwhile, the number of ICU beds used by COVID-19 patients was 542 —down 11 from Sept. 17.

MORE: How coronavirus differs from flu: Symptoms to watch for

Hospitals struggle to care for patients due to the unvaccinated

On Sept. 18, 108 Arizonans lost their lives due to COVID-19 -- a death toll we haven't seen in our state since February. But during this surge, most of the victims are under the age of 50. FOX 10's Irene Snyder reports.

Arizona COVID-19 resources, FAQ: azdhs.gov/coronavirus

In order to protect yourself from a possible infection, the CDC recommends:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Cover your mouth and nose with a cloth face cover when around others
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
Monitor your health daily