The Imperial County Public Health Department updated local numbers on the COVID-19 pandemic in the Valley.

In one weeks time the number of positive cases jumped by 436 individuals from 800 on the morning of Monday , May 18 to 1,236 on Monday , May 25. Active cases went from 453 to 688 over the week , an increase of 235. Those individuals who have recovered from the virus increased by 193 , going from 332 to 525. Deaths increased from 15 to 23 over the same period. Testing has ramped up with an increase 0f 2,836 tests completed over the week. The OptumServ test site at the California Mid-Winter Fairgrounds is testing up to 132 individuals per day. Testing at OptumServ is available to any Imperial County resident. No physician referrals are needed but you must make an appointment. More information is available on the County Health Department website. The OptumServ site will move from the Fairgrounds to the Calexico Community Center on Monday , June 1.

Many healthcare officials have said that the significant jump in active cases is a result of the number of individuals who bent social distancing rules over the Mother's Day weekend. Officials are hopeful that a similar spike does not occur with family and friends get togethers over the Memorial Day weekend.