June 23, 2020 MEDIA ADVISORY: Louisiana Regional Medical Directors available to discuss increase in coronavirus cases, discuss prevention strategies and response

Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Jun 23, 2020 - On Tuesday, June 23, the Louisiana Department of Health announced 1,356 new cases of the coronavirus, continuing an alarming rise in community spread. The rise in cases comes as Louisiana is in Phase 2 of reopening. While Phase 2 has meant some relaxed restrictions on some businesses and public places, state officials have encouraged the public to assess their risk of exposure and to take proactive measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, especially through the use of masks, social distancing and good hand hygiene.

The nine regional medical directors across the state are available to discuss this rise in coronavirus cases and provide context to the regional statistics being released. Regional medical directors are in constant contact with state health leadership and local leaders and can help explain what the public can do to help address this rise in cases, particularly among key demographics.

WHAT: Regional medical directors are available for interviews on the rise in coronavirus cases. These interviews can be arranged using audio-visual platforms for broadcast outlets.

WHEN: Tuesday, June 23 - Friday June 26

WHERE: By phone or videoconferencing platforms.

WHO: Louisiana Department of Health Regional Medical Directors

CONTACT: Kevin Litten, public information officer, kevin.litten@la.gov or 225-436-2207