October 23, 2020 2:30 p.m.

On Friday, the Oregon Health Authority reported the highest daily case count, since the pandemic began, with 550 new confirmed and presumptive cases of COVID-19.

3 new deaths were reported, raising the state total to 649. The new cases bring the state total to 41,348 and include:

*135 in Multnomah County

*91 in Washington County

*57 in Marion County

*52 in Lane County

*48 in Clackamas County

*33 in Jackson County

*23 in Yamhill County

*21 in Umatilla County

*19 in Linn County

*13 in Malheur County

*11 in Deschutes County

*9 in Benton County

*7 in Crook County

*5 in Coos County

*4 in Hood River County

*3 each in Douglas, Columbia and Polk counties

*2 in Lincoln County

*1 each in Baker, Curry, Grant, Harney, Jefferson, Josephine, Klamath, Morrow, and Union counties

The deaths ranged in age from 68 to 82. All had underlying conditions, according to the OHA.

OHA’s release said preliminary data shows the increase is due to continued widespread community transmission resulting in small clusters and outbreaks across the state. OHA Senior Health Advisor Dr. Shimi Sharief said residents need to aggressively adhere to face covering guidance and always wear a mask, She said, “We know everyone is tired and we all wish this would go away, but the reality is this disease is spreading in Oregon and it’s on all of us to protect ourselves and each other”.