California Saw Fastest-Ever Increase In Covid-19 Cases During First Week Of November

Topline

California saw coronavirus cases spike more than 50% during the first week of November, making it the fastest-ever increase in the state as the U.S. experiences a dangerous third resurgence of the coronavirus. 

Key Facts

Big Number

5%. That’s California’s seven-day positivity rate. It’s significantly lower than the 9.8% national average, according to Johns Hopkins, but Newsom cautioned that the rise in cases is still alarming.

Key Background

The U.S. is experiencing a third surge in the coronavirus, with every state seeing spikes in new cases. Though California avoided a first wave of the coronavirus with early stay-at-home orders and a mask mandate, Newsom said the state isn’t immune to trends affecting the entire country, especially as it gets harder to meet outdoors in the colder months. 

What To Watch For

Newsom said he is assessing a curfew to curb the spread of the coronavirus, following similar measures from New York City, Massachusetts and Virginia. 

Tangent

Newsom apologized for having dinner outside with a large group of people at the French Laundry in Napa, which has caused a major scandal for the governor since it was reported by the San Francisco Chronicle last week. Newsom said the “spirit” of what he’s been preaching was “contradicted.” “I shouldn’t have been there, I should have turned back around,” he said.