Of the 163 COVID-19 fatalities in Utah:

• Utah mortality rate: 0.9 percent, down from 1.0 percent and the lowest in the nation

• Median age for fatality: 73

• Percent of fatalities with comorbidity: 81 percent

• Percent of fatalities with comorbidity and/or 65 plus: 93.4 percent

• Percent of fatalities that were long-term-care facility residents: 43 percent

While the state is concerned with the health effects of COVID-19, we must balance our response, so the solution does not become worse than the disease. The economic impacts alone forced 105,000 Utahns out of work and required the state to cut $840 million from its budget. 

During the stay at home initiative, mortality rates rose among non-COVID-19 patients, which could be because many delayed receiving needed preventative care. Mental health issues have increased as well as issues among those with disabilities. Additionally, Utah has received startlingly low reports of child abuse, worrying many that reports are not being made due to increased isolation for children and limited contact with adults outside the home.

A complete shutdown is not a responsible alternative. While there are still many unknowns, we now know more than we did a few months ago and can overcome this virus together. If we follow CDC guidelines and make sure we follow precautions, Utah can stay safe and stay open. 

Phased Approach

Utah’s unique landscape requires a multifaceted approach to overcoming the health crisis and ensuring individuals and businesses are protected. A one size fits all approach doesn't work in this state. For example, as of June 25, Southeast Utah has had zero hospitalizations for COVID-19 and Central Utah has had eight. Due to low COVID-19 cases, these areas are better suited to fully open while still following health guidelines. 

Key Data Points              

The key data points the state is watching include hospital utilization rates, the transmission rate, rate of community spread and high-risk populations. Health experts, economic advisors and elected officials are reviewing key factors to make data-driven recommendations to protect the vulnerable population and allow the state to continue to transition health risk phases and stay open. 

Included below is updated information regarding the three key data factors. 

Hospital Utilization Rate

As of June 23, ICU beds occupied by COVID-19 patients in Utah have averaged 13 percent of total capacity for the last 23 days. Hospital bed utilization is a primary indicator of the strain on the state’s healthcare capacity. 

The graph below shows Utah’s ICU capacity from May 14 through June 23.