Though daily case numbers have been lower on average, COVID-19-related deaths in Idaho surged in August. The state reported a record 172deaths last month.
The number of deaths in August were nearly double what the state saw in July when 97 Idahoans died of COVID-19. April was the next highest month with 54 fatalities.
The high death count followed a spike in COVID-19 infections in the Treasure Valley in mid-July. Though those initial outbreaks were tied to young people visiting Boise bars, doctors warned that the virus would make its way to older residents who are more vulnerable to getting severely sick.
Most of Idaho’s deaths are people older than 80 and about half of the total are associated with long-term care centers. Still, 21 people under the age of 60 have died from the virus.
Ada, Canyon and Kootenai counties had the most residents die in August due to COVID-19.
Find reporter Rachel Cohen on Twitter @racheld_cohen
Copyright 2020 Boise State Public Radio
