By Ryan Hanson

Data are playing an important role in the local fight against the COVID-19 outbreak. Several important websites have been created to share the latest data on testing, case confirmation, and mortalities due to the virus. Data on COVID-19 Cases in Shelby County, TN was created by the Shelby County Health Department to disseminate the latest information related to COVID-19. The site includes up to date information on testing and the demographics of those that have tested positive. A geographic density map of COVID-19 cases is presented on the site.

University of Memphis Professor, Dr. Esra Ozdenerol disseminates data through the COVID-19 in Shelby County, TN dashboard created in her SAGE Laboratory (Spatial Analysis and Geographic Education) by undergraduate student Jacob Seboly. The dashboard presents data on confirmed cases and deaths as well as risk factors that can be used to identify vulnerable populations to COVID-19 such as being uninsured, 65 years of age or over and living alone, and proximity to medical care.

The Tennessee Data Center has created the Tennessee COVID-19 Case Tracking data website. The site includes a dashboard with information on COVID-19 cases per county such as new and confirmed cases, hospitalizations, and deaths. The site also includes information on cases across the United States by county.

If you are looking for additional information relating to the virus, The Shelby County Health Department has a site with information for healthcare providers, individuals, the community, business, and schools.