Bringing America Back is an ABC News feature that highlights the day's top stories in economic recovery and medical preparedness amid the coronavirus pandemic. These stories delve into the key steps America is taking -- or needs to take. Stay on top of the latest developments regarding states' social distancing measures, advancements in the treatment of COVID-19 and more.
New COVID-19 infections remain flat or are decreasing in most states, but in 14, they are growing. Hospitalizations are also on the rise in at least eight states. Arizona has seen a dramatic rise in both. One infectious disease epidemiologist attributed the increase to the state's loosening restrictions. Some public health experts fear that reopening may make the second wave of the pandemic worse than the first.
The same day that the nation's top infectious disease expert, Dr. Anthony Fauci, warned that people should avoid large gatherings, President Donald Trump announced new rallies. Coronavirus task force meetings have also decreased as the administration shifts its focus to the economy.
Some 43 million Americans have now filed for unemployment due to the COVID-19 crisis. The pandemic unemployment assistance program, which adds $600 a week on top of state unemployment benefits, is set to end July 31, and lawmakers are grappling with extending it.
The travel industry, no surprise, has been especially hard-hit by the pandemic. But there are signs of it bouncing back, Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky told ABC News. Road trips, for one, are becoming especially popular.
Tune into ABC at 1 p.m. ET and ABC News Live at 4 p.m. ET every weekday for special coverage of the novel coronavirus with the full ABC News team, including the latest news, context and analysis.