This afternoon, New Jersey reported an additional 15,482 confirmed positive tests. This is the highest number of positive tests throughout the pandemic, surpassing a record number of cases on Wednesday. The weekly average of cases is up 386% from one month ago. The increase is thought to be caused by the higher transmissibility of the Omicron variant, coupled with wider availability for testing this year and more people taking tests in anticipation of the holidays and holiday travel. 33 confirmed deaths were also reported. Hospitalizations have also increased in recent days, topping 2,200; though these constitute fewer hospitalizations compared to last winter.
