Record-breaking numbers of new coronavirus cases have led some states to reverse their plans to reopen. Despite being among the first states to push for reopening, Texas and Florida have recently pushed back from further plans, while Imperial County in California has been urged to reenter lockdown after a surge in cases.

According to Johns Hopkins University, the U.S. has experienced record-high numbers of new COVID-19 cases in recent days. On Thursday, nearly 40,000 new cases were reported, followed by over 45,000 on Friday, the worst single-day increase for the U.S. since the outbreak began.

In response to these surges, states have instituted new restrictions and regulations. In Florida, beaches in Miami-Dade County are set to be closed for the usually well-attended Fourth of July weekend. Both Texas and Florida have also restricted bars, with Texas closing them outright and Florida prohibiting them from selling alcohol.

Due to the worrying numbers of new cases, the White House Coronavirus Task Force on Friday held its first meeting in two months. At the meeting, officials pleaded for adults under 40 years old to follow public health guidance in the coming weeks to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Vice President Mike Pence drew attention for not wearing a mask during the press conference.

John Hopkins University reports that the U.S. has close to 2.5 million confirmed cases and over 125,000 deaths from COVID-19.

aerial-view-of-the-beach-at-fort-lauderdale-florida
Florida's new COVID-19 cases are alarmingly from the younger population. Pixabay
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