MSDH: More than 20 patients die after contracting COVID-19

The Mississippi State Department of Health reports 262 new cases of COVID-19 in the state and 22 new deaths. The 22 deaths include nine from prior weeks identified through death certificates, the MSDH said.

Mississippi's total of COVID-19 cases since March 11 stands at 8686, with 396 deaths.

Twenty-nine of the newest cases were among residents in long-term care facilities, the MSDH said. There are 114 active outbreaks of COVID-19 in long-term care facilities, the MSDH added.

The health department continues to take your questions on its COVID-19 toll free hotline at 877-978-6453. Lines are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.