St. Joseph County officials held a press conference Friday afternoon to provide an update on the COVID-19 response.

Dr. Mark Fox provided an update on the case numbers.

There are a total of 890 cases reported in St. Joseph County to date. There have been 33 deaths in the county, but 3 of those deaths were residents of other counties.

There have been 8,992 tests reported to the Department of Health. The average number of days for test results is 2.3.

There are 57 patients currently hospitalized with COVID-19 or suspected to have COVID-19.

Dr. Fox said the case rate is 327 per 100,000 residents.

There has been an increase in cases in the county, but Dr. Fox does not believe that is attributable to an increase in testing.

South Bend Mayor James Mueller said it appears the case numbers are increasing and asked residents to continue to social distance and use masks when in public and social distancing cannot be maintained.

He added the South Bend Venues Parks and Arts website has an update on the status of programs and venues. It lists what is open and the estimated opening date for venues and programs that are currently closed.

St. Joseph County Commissioner Andrew Kostielney reminded residents they have until 11:59 p.m. on May 21 to request an absentee ballot.

If you want to vote absentee in person, that begins May 26 at the City-County building and City Services building in Mishawaka. Absentee voting in person ends May 30.

In person voting will be held on June 2 at 10 vote centers.