The state Department of Health Services reported another 2,659 cases of COVID-19 Nov. 23, bringing the total number of known cases this year to more than 300,000. Monday numbers are typically lower as weekend reporting lags, meaning today’s number of new cases is unusually high. Hospitalizations have also been steadily increasing. That doesn’t bode well for the days to come.

And with even greater spread, Arizona’s unemployment situation is likely to worsen as well.

People were less eager to go out even for groceries when cases spiked this summer. Analysts say industries more vulnerable to spread and customer concerns, like restaurants, could see less business — and need fewer employees. 

The Show spoke with Economist Jim Rounds for more about what could come next.

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