Coronavirus Friday update: Average daily cases, test-positivity has doubled in two weeks

Jul. 23—Minnesota's average daily rate of new coronavirus cases and test-positivity have both roughly doubled in two weeks.

The increases come as the more contagious delta variant is believed to be the source of 75 percent or more of the new infections. Minnesota health officials say nearly all new cases, hospitalizations and deaths are residents who have not been fully vaccinated.

Minnesota's increase in new cases mirrors a national trend. However, the state's relatively high rate of vaccination has, so far, helped it avoid larger spikes.

The 375 new cases reported Friday bring the case total to 609,387 since March 2020. Of those, 599,466 people who tested positive, or 98 percent, have recovered enough they no longer need to be isolated.

Two additional deaths were also reported Friday, by the state Department of Health, bringing the toll to 7,650 including 4,498 in long-term care. Both of the latest fatalities were in their 70s and resided in private homes.

There are 123 patients hospitalized, including 34 in critical condition. An estimated 2,150 people with active infections are recovering at home.

Minnesota is creeping towards its goal of having 70 percent of residents 16 and older vaccinated. As of Friday, just over 68 percent had received at least one dose of vaccine.

The state has administered 5.8 million doses of vaccine and nearly 3 million residents have completed their vaccine series.