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Doctor says COVID numbers promising, don't take off the mask yet

Posted at 8:34 PM, Aug 26, 2020
and last updated 2020-08-26 21:34:14-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The number of people with active cases of coronavirus dropped from July to late August, but health experts don't want people to let up on taking precautions.

The number of active cases in Davidson County has dropped to 1,952. On Tuesday, there were 2,093 active cases. Cases of the virus per 100,000 people dropped from 65 to 19 since the peak in July.

Dr. Alex Jahangir, who heads the Metro Coronavirus Task Force, said it's good news, but it's only happening because people are social distancing and wearing masks.

"Hopefully, as we get down to more manageable numbers, we will get to do more and more things in our city. My goal, just like anyone else's is just to get back to life as we know it," said Dr. Jahangir.

He said states and cities that implement mask mandates are seeing trends like Nashville's.

However, it's unlikely there will be no coronavirus in the community unless an effective vaccine is created.

Also, it's possible that the state could see another spike if people relax on doctor's recommendations.

"Our situation is changing in our community. Several colleges have opened up. Schools are opening up. I hope that people don't let their guard down. Labor day is coming up and we've seen surges after every major three day holiday. So, let's try to repeat that," said Jahangir.