RIVERSIDE (CNS) – Riverside County health officials Tuesday announced 631 newly confirmed coronavirus cases — the largest one-day uptick in reported infections since the pandemic began — as well as seven additional deaths and a jump in hospitalizations.

Hemet, San Jacinto, Murrieta, and Temecula added 14 new cases on Tuesday, Lake Elsinore added 11, and Menifee added 7. There were no new deaths in southwest Riverside County reported.

The latest numbers bring the case total to 14,431 and the death toll to 431 countywide.

According to the Riverside University Health System, 315 people are hospitalized countywide due to COVID-19 — an increase of 17 compared to Monday — with 90 of those patients in intensive care units, up from 87.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said Monday that Riverside is one of 11 counties the state is watching due to coronavirus caseload increases. San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Imperial, Santa Barbara, Kern, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Stanislaus, and San Joaquin counties were also listed.

“The county continuously pores over the data of local coronavirus cases and hospitalizations. Being on the engagement list means that the county will closely discuss data with the state and potential driving factors,” Riverside County spokeswoman Brooke Federico said Tuesday.

“If progress is not made, the county may make additional recommendations or requirements. The state may also choose to make local recommendations or requirements, as well,” she said.

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