Kentucky reports 609 new COVID-19 cases

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky has reported 609 new coronavirus cases and 13 more virus-related deaths. Gov. Andy Beshear continued urging people to take the COVID-19 vaccine. The report Tuesday says the statewide rate of positive cases was 3.44%. The Democratic governor says case numbers seem to be hitting a plateau. He’s says it’s more important than ever to increase vaccinations. Anyone 16 or older is eligible to be vaccinated in Kentucky. Beshear has pledged to lift capacity and physical distancing restrictions for nearly all businesses, venues and events catering to 1,000 or fewer patrons once 2.5 million Kentuckians receive at least their first COVID-19 shot.