Today’s update discusses:

• updated projections of COVID-19-related deaths in Indiana
• Boone County holding blood drive
• Marion County continuing restrictions

HEALTH

• The Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation at the University of Washington released new projections of COVID-19 cases and deaths based on the number of states relaxing social distancing and ending stay-at-home orders. In fact, Indiana has seen the highest increased projections for COVID-19-related deaths, increasing from a projected 1,041 deaths to 6,248 deaths by August 4, 2020 – a 543% increase.

RESOURCES

• The Boone County Sheriff’s Office and the American Red Cross are working together to host a blood drive to fight COVID-19. The purpose of the blood drive is to stock up on healthy blood for those who are vulnerable to the virus. While walk-in appointments will not be accepted, residents can make an appointment on the Red Cross website. The blood drive is scheduled to take place on May 27 from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.

SOCIAL LIFE

• Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Marion County health officials reaffirmed yesterday that the county’s restrictions will remain in effect at least through May 15, including restrictions on food and beverage businesses and large gatherings, despite the rest of the state easing restrictions. Hogsett also announced that there will be no exceptions for places of worship in Marion County. While officials currently do not know when the county will join the rest of the state, the Marion County Public Health Department hopes to release a more detailed timeline of reopening next week.