Here’s an update on the number of positive cases of the COVID-19 coronavirus as reported by state health departments across the South.

Here’s a breakdown, by state, from Thursday afternoon:

Alabama: 78 positive cases, 0 deaths.
Arkansas: 62 positive cases.
Florida: 393 positive cases, 9 deaths.
Georgia: 287 positive cases, 10 deaths.
Louisiana: 392 positive cases, 10 deaths.
Mississippi: 50 positive cases, 1 death.
Tennessee: 154 positives cases.
Texas: 143 positive cases, 3 deaths.

Total cases across the South: 1,559

The number of people infected worldwide surpassed the 242,000 mark. Deaths topped 9,800, but the number of people considered recovered reached over 84,900, according to a tally kept by Johns Hopkins University.

The University’s tracking shows approximately 13,159 cases in the U.S.

Everyone is warned to take the necessary precautions to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and stay safe and healthy.

These precautions include:

• Washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and frequently
• Covering your cough or sneeze with your arm
• Avoiding touching your face
• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces
• Avoiding close contact with others
• And staying home if you are sick