Washington Tops Daily Coronavirus Record: 716 Cases Thursday

SEATTLE, WA — Washington reported 716 new coronavirus cases Thursday, marking the state's highest daily coronavirus case total and breaking two previous records set earlier in the week.

Washington's increase coincides with patterns seen throughout much of the nation, with infections rising in at least 40 states. The United States reported 50,700 new cases on Thursday alone.

At least 34,151 COVID-19 illnesses have been diagnosed in Washington since January, and Thursday's update included three additional deaths in King County, bringing the state's death toll to 1,339.

Gov. Jay Inslee has announced a two-week freeze on all reopening phases, citing increased coronavirus activity recorded across Washington.

Catch up on the latest developments:

Washington will require businesses to enforce customer marks, starting Tuesday

All Washington businesses will be legally required to refuse customers who do not comply with statewide requirements on face coverings, Inslee announced Thursday. The governor's order will go into effect Tuesday, July 7.

The state's expanded rules follow earlier an earlier order mandating face coverings in all public spaces where others are present, including outdoors at times when adequate physical distancing is not possible.

"We know that somewhere between 20 and 40 percent of cases are asymptomatic, meaning they don't show any symptoms, but people can still pass the virus onto others," said John Wiesman, state Secretary of Health. "We also know that people can spread the virus for up to two days before they begin showing any symptoms. That is why face coverings just continue to be such a critical tool."

Inslee said enforcement actions will be taken if necessary, but the primary goal is education and voluntary compliance.

Read more: Washington To Ban Businesses From Serving Mask-Less Customers

Coronavirus outbreak at UW fraternity surpasses 100 cases

Coronavirus cases among 15 fraternity houses near the University of Washington have nearly tripled since the outbreak became publicly known on Tuesday. According to the latest update, at least 105 students self-reported positive test results to the Interfraternity Council by Thursday afternoon.

UW Medicine said 430 students were screened during the first day of the outbreak at a newly established testing facility within walking distance of Greek Row. At least 62 of the cases were independently verified by public health officials, who are working to certify the remaining illnesses.

All students with confirmed infections, potential symptoms or suspected exposures are asked to quarantine or self-isolate.

Read more: Coronavirus Outbreak At UW Fraternities Grows Beyond 100 Cases

Health officials urge caution over the July 4 weekend

State and local health agencies are urging all Washingtonians to remain vigilant over the holiday weekend and avoid large gatherings or other reckless behavior.

In King County, the health officer pointed to a significant rise in new illnesses since mid-June, diagnosed most frequently among younger adults.

"Because infections can spread from this predominately younger group to older community members, and persons with underlying health conditions who are at-risk for severe disease requiring hospitalization, we are closely tracking our health care system status," said Dr. Jeff Duchin.

In Pierce County, the health department said a group of young people recently held a party, which led to several new COVID-19 infections.

Public health officials are concerned that the upcoming holiday weekend could lead to more avoidable outbreaks.

"COVID-19 would love to meet your friends and family this Fourth of July holiday weekend - don't let it happen," Duchin said. "COVID-19 isn't taking the weekend off, and the need to protect ourselves and others can't either.

Duchin said unnecessary gatherings of any size are discouraged but proper precautions should be taken even among small groups. Preventative measures should include physical distancing, face coverings, frequent hand-washing and limiting visits to well-ventilated spaces and outdoor areas.

Read more: King County Urges Coronavirus Precautions Over July 4 Holiday

Coronavirus cases by county:

The above numbers are provided by the state Department of Health, and some numbers differ from the totals provided separately by county health agencies.