NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tuesday marked one of the largest jumps COVID-19 cases in Nashville since the outbreak began, with 184 new cases confirmed within the last day.
Metro Public Health officials say the protests across Nashville over the last several days, which have brought thousands together in memory of George Floyd, do not account for the increase in cases because many protesters were wearing masks.
"I've been overwhelmingly impressed by that, and right now any of the cases we see do not appear to have any connection to these protests, marches and rallies," said Dr. Michael Caldwell, Director of Metro Public Health.
Experts say more people venturing out during Phase 2 Nashville's reopening plan is contributing to the increase - something they say they expected.
"It’s a reminder that we have to live with COVID-19 in our community, and if you’re not wearing a face mask, please wear one because it’s showing respect for the person you are with," Caldwell said.
Metro Public Health says specifically, the spread is happening within households, where one family member transmits the virus to other family members under the same roof.
