Georgia reports its highest daily total of COVID-19 cases

ATLANTA - Georgia reported more than 2,200 additional COVID-19 cases Sunday, a new high of daily reported cases as confirmed infections continue to rise.

The number of reported cases on Sunday eclipsed the previous highest daily total of 1,990 reported on Saturday.

Georgia health officials reported the new numbers in their daily afternoon update on Sunday. It brings Georgia’s total confirmed cases to more than 77,000.

The number of infections is believed to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.

Since the pandemic began, the state has seen nearly 2,800 deaths from the virus. Two additional deaths were reported on Sunday.

Coronavirus infections in Georgia have been rising throughout June.

The surge in infections comes about two months after Georgia began lifting restrictions April 24 on hair salons, gyms, bowling alleys and other businesses that had been forced to close to slow the virus. Restaurants, retail stores and bars have since reopened as well.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause more severe illness and even death.