(NEW YORK) — With over 18 million people infected globally with COVID-19, the global death toll is swiftly approaching 700,000, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.  

The U.S. is the nation with the worst outbreak, with over 4.7 million confirmed cases and nearly 157,000 deaths. 

As COVID-19 continues to worsen in the South, several states have enacted new measures to prevent the further spread of the virus.  

Louisiana has mandated all bars to remain closed and enacted a statewide mask mandate through August 28, the second time Governor John Bel Edwards extended his measures, as they were anticipated to end on Friday.

Meanwhile, Mississippi ordered all residents must wear masks during public gatherings and when out shopping.  Governor Tate Reeves said the mandate will last two weeks.  The state has over 62,000 COVID-19 cases and nearly 1,800 deaths.   

Also, in response to the growing number or cases, Governor Reeve issued an executive order that delays school openings for middle and high schools in counties designated as hot spots.

The Northeast is now dealing with a climbing number of cases with Rhode Island landing itself on several travel quarantine lists.  New York, New Jersey and Connecticut mandated that all persons who travel to or come from Rhode Island must quarantine for two weeks.

In addition, Delaware and Washington D.C. have been removed from those lists.

Overall, Doctor Deborah Birx cautioned that deaths will continue to rise due to COVID-19, saying there will be a climb over the next two weeks.