The Kern County Public Health Department confirmed Tuesday morning one new COVID-19 related death, bringing the total number of COVID-19 related deaths to 39 in Kern County.

Health officials also confirmed 54 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 2,386 cases of COVID-19 in Kern. Of the reported cases, 1,545 people have recovered, while there are still 792 active cases. 

Of the active cases, 51 people are being hospitalized.

The majority of Kern’s cases fall in the 18 to 49 age group, with a total of 1,324 cases.

“Ninety-six percent (of Kern’s cases) are either fully recovered or are recovering at home,” said Ryan Alsop, Kern County’s Chief Administrative Officer.

Governor Newsom said California counties could begin to move into Phase 3 as early as this week. However, before Kern moves into Phase three, it must first receive the guidelines for how businesses under Phase three can reopen, Alsop said.

County officials said there is also a possibility Kern might see some delays when it comes to Phase three.

County officials said if the County does not have the hospital or testing capacity when it comes time to move into Phase three, Kern County may be set back, according to County officials.

“Yes, there is a fear of not being able to open up to Stage three,” said Alsop. “If we see an uptick in hospitalizations, or if we are seeing a change in the number of positive cases…those are all concerns for us.”

Alsop said this could mean a change in the speed and the scope of how Kern can continue to reopen.

“We need the public’s health in adhering to guidelines and practicing social distancing,” he said. “It’s really important to continue to do that.”

However, Alsop said Kern County is prepared if a spike in cases were to occur.