Maryland Coronavirus Update: 3,125 Cases, 53 Deaths, Fire Codes

MARYLAND — There are 3,125 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Maryland, state health officials reported Saturday morning. That's an increase of 367 since the previous day, when there were 2,758 cases.

As of Saturday, officials say, 53 people in Maryland have died from the new coronavirus, including 11 new deaths since Friday.

Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan proclaimed a statewide moment of prayer and reflection to take place at noon Sunday. The governor wants Marylanders to "join together" in honor of those who have been lost to the virus, the sick and the doctors, nurses, clinicians, health care workers and first responders on the front lines of the battle.

And the state fire marshal's office said that as big box stores and local corner stores restrict the number of entrances used to ensure social distance, customers have voiced fears of fire code violations. State fire code does not require a minimum number of entrances into any store and businesses may restrict entrances to a smaller number than normal.

But, all required interior emergency exits must be clear of any obstructions and available in the event of an emergency, State Fire Marshal Brian Geraci said. These exits are permitted to be marked as "for use in an emergency only" with signs or employees posted at the exits. Obstructions such as carts, shelving, temporary walls, or other items are no permitted and must be removed immediately.

The state reported 22,485 tests have come back negative; 821 people have ever been hospitalized with the virus; and 159 patients have been released from isolation.

Here's where the confirmed coronavirus cases are as of Saturday, April 4, according to the Maryland Department of Health:

Health officials began releasing the number of deaths in each county on Friday. Montgomery and Prince George's counties, which also have the highest number of cases — with 640 and 653, respectively — also have the most deaths attributed to the virus. Prince George's had 13 residents die and Montgomery reported nine deaths.

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Three coronavirus testing sites opened this week at Vehicle Emissions Inspection Program stations — in Glen Burnie, Forest Hill and Waldorf — where those who have doctor's orders can be tested for COVID-19. Results may take up to five days, state health officials said.

See Also:

• MD Coronavirus: Governor Hogan Issues Stay-At-Home Order
• Telephone Wellness Check Available To MD Seniors: Coronavirus
• MD Emergency Orders Expand Health Care, Cases Surge: Coronavirus
• MD Coronavirus: Special Shopping Hours For Seniors At Stores
• What Is Allowed Under Maryland's Stay-At-Home Order