MoCo Adds 103 Coronavirus Cases; Hogan Asks For More Enforcement

SILVER SPRING, MD — The Maryland Health Department on Tuesday reported two more coronavirus deaths and 103 new cases in Montgomery County, bringing the local fatality count to 724 and the total number of infections to 15,883.

Another 38, health officials believe, died from COVID-19 without ever getting tested. "Probable deaths" aren't included in the official death toll until they are confirmed by a laboratory test.

The county — which is currently in phase two of its reopening plan — continues to have the highest number of deaths in the state. It also has the second highest number of confirmed cases, after Prince George's County, which has 19,956, according to the latest figures.

Statewide, health officials are reporting its largest daily increase in coronavirus hospitalizations since late May.

There are 415 coronavirus patients being hospitalized,according to the latest figures. That's an increase of 29 patients over the prior day. Before Tuesday, the largest single-day increase was recorded on May 26, with 39 new patients.

Maryland now has 74,260 coronavirus cases, 3,202 confirmed deaths, and 132 "probable deaths."

Gov. Larry Hogan on Tuesday urged residents to wear face coverings and social distance. He also called on local leaders to step up enforcement of public health requirements in bars and restaurants.

"The vast majority of bars and restaurants in our state are in compliance, but some are flagrantly violating the law and endangering public health," Hogan said. "You have the responsibility to enforce these laws. Violators should be warned, fined, have actions taken regarding their licenses, or closed if necessary. Local health departments, local liquor boards and inspectors, and local law enforcement agencies must work together to ensure public health is protected."

Montgomery County health inspectors have visited more than 2,000 bars and restaurants to date, according to officials. Last week, Dr. Earl Stoddard, the county's head of emergency management, said only a handful of them were either ordered to close or issued a citation because of COVID-19 reopening violations.