TUCSON, Ariz. — Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey spoke to members of the media today as the state continues its fight against COVID-19.
Among the topics addressed, Ducey unveiled a new executive order that extends an upcoming eviction protections deadline to Oct. 31.
"The order ensures renters impacted by COVID-19 will be able to stay in their homes while extending the time to access rental assistance programs," the governor said.
He and also said the virus is showing signs of slowing down, but there is no end in sight at the time.
The governor showed the state's current Rt score, a type of measurement that shows the average number of people infected by an infectious person. Arizona currently sits at a .98, which according to the Rt criteria, means the spread of the virus is showing signs of slowing down.
"If Rt is above 1.0, the virus will spread quickly. When Rt is below 1.0, the virus will stop spreading," the Rt score's website says.
Ducey continued to stress the importance of masks during the briefing. Starting tomorrow, July 17, free cloth masks will be available to people 65 or older. To order a set of face coverings, visit azhealth.gov/ordermasks.
On Thursday, Arizona health officials reported 3,259 new cases and 58 additional deaths.
Related: Coronavirus: Latest updates, cases in Arizona
Watch the full press conference below:
