Tennessee is continuing to see rising numbers in relation to COVID-19.
On Tuesday, the Tennessee Department of Health reported 1,259 hospitalizations across the state in relation to COVID-19, according to FOX 17 News. The Tennessee Department of Health also announced 3,317 new cases on Monday, which was the highest single-day total in the state since the pandemic began.
The department reported a total of 232,061 cases on Monday, which includes 26,229 active cases. Last week, the Tennessee Department of Health acknowledged a moderate increase in cases, as well as a 30% spike in COVID-19 hospitalizations.
"We're not panicked, we're watching," said Commissioner Dr. Lisa Piercey via FOX 17 News. The average age of a hospitalized COVID-19 patient in Tennessee is currently 70, with a nine-day average length of staying hospitalized.
"Our older family and friends are getting it from those of us who are younger...make sure you're doing what you need to at whatever age you are to protect our most vulnerable," Dr. Piercey said via FOX 17 News.
Officials said there is currently no plan to issue any statewide mandates to combat the spike in hospitalizations. On Monday, Governor Bill Lee announced his decision to extend the authority for county mayors to offer mask mandates through the remainder of 2020, instead of implementing a statewide mask mandate, which was recommended specifically to the state of Tennessee by the White House Coronavirus Task Force amid the recent spike in COVID-19 cases.