The county s rate remains low as the delta variant of covid-19 races through the state. The variant spreads more easily and quickly than other variants, according to authorities.
The state Friday had 9,750 active covid-19 cases, including 241 in Sebastian County, according to the Arkansas Department of Health.
Dr. Lee Johnson, who is also a state representative and medical director of Fort Smith EMS, said the local case rate is tied to many factors, including the number of people who might have the virus, but aren t getting tested.
Sebastian County had 48 hospitalizations, including 20 intensive care unit patients Friday. Johnson said the number is comparable to where the county was exactly a year ago, before vaccines was available to the public.