Coronavirus Updates: Georgia’s Confirmed COVID-19 Cases Pass 10,500

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp speaks about the COVID-19 virus during a news conference at the Georgia state Capitol on Wednesday.

Brynn Anderson / Associated Press

Georgia public health officials have confirmed more than 10,566 COVID-19 cases, and 379 deaths from the disease statewide.

This represents about a 3% increase over the numbers reported Wednesday evening, with deaths climbing by nine people.

Gov. Brian Kemp has closed public schools through the end of the academic year and ordered Georgia residents to shelter at home except for reasons such as work and grocery shopping. He has prohibited gatherings of more than 10 people and closed some businesses. Restaurants can only serve meals for takeout or delivery.