MSDH: 22 more patients die after contracting COVID-19

The state health department reports 612 new cases of COVID-19 in Mississippi, with 22 new deaths. "The total of #covid19 cases for the year is now 69,986, with 2,011 deaths," the Mississippi State Department of Health said in a tweet.

The health department offers tips and prevention guidance at www.HealthyMS.com/covid-19 -- and also is taking your questions about the coronavirus at 877-978-6453. Toll free phone lines are open 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily.