According to The New York Times, the state of Arkansas is reaching all-time highs in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, and NWA hospitals have been hit even harder as they struggle to create space for patients.

• Almost 6,000 cases were reported for NWA between Dec. 27 and Jan. 2, says Dr. Jennifer Dillaha with the Arkansas Department of Health. -KNWA/Fox24
• Local pharmacies are encouraging those that are included in Phases 1B and 1C to sign up for the vaccine as soon as possible to prevent a further rise in cases.
• There are 140 COVID-19 patients hospitalized in NWA, 114 in ICU units. -KNWA/Fox24

Be sure to mask up and continue to take the precautionary measures to protect yourself and your neighbors. Check out the CDC's COVID-19 protection guide.