More than 200 new cases identified; hospitalizations also up sharply

CONCORD - DHHS announced 205 new positive test results for COVID-19 on Saturday, prompting Gov. Chris Sununu to plead with New Hampshire residents to continue following CDC guidelines such as mask wearing and social distancing.

"The situation here in New Hampshire remains very serious, the data shows that community transmission is increasing, and we expect cases to rise," he said in a statement sent press outlets. "We must all remain vigilant in our daily lives. As we enter these winter months, it will be more important than ever to wear your mask, practice social distancing, and maintain proper hand hygiene."

Saturday's number reflected a test positivity rate of 1.6 percent, which is within the scope of recent test data but a slight increase over the .9 percent that was generally reflected in the numbers from early October.

Those who tested positive include 31 under the age of 18 and 28 from Strafford County.

Two new hospitalized cases were reported for a current total of 42.

DHHS also announced one additional death related to COVID-19, a Hillsborough County woman over 50.

Locally, current virus cases stand at 20 in Rochester, 26 in Dover, nine in Barrington and Somersworth, five in Farmington, 1-4 in Milton and none in Strafford.

Current Situation in New Hampshire

NH Persons who have contracted COVID-19 11,084

Recovered 9,263 (84%)

Deaths Attributed to COVID-19 483 (4%)

Total Current COVID-19 Cases 1,338

Persons Who Have Been Hospitalized for COVID-19 779 (7%)

Current Hospitalizations 42

Persons Being Monitored in NH (approximate point in time) 4,400