WILMINGTON, Del. --- Gov. John Carney on Friday reiterated that Delaware is not yet ready to begin the process of reopening the state as the number of positive tests for COVID-19 continues to climb in the First State.

During a press briefing Carney said the state needs to see 14 consecutive days of declining presumptive positive cases to begin moving toward the first phase of the CDC's recommended reopening strategy.

The governor said that would be difficult, especially as Sussex County experiences a surge in cases that has outpaced New Castle County by nearly three times.

"These numbers don't reflect testing that's been done there recently as we attempt to get our arms around the situation there with the workers in the poultry industry in Sussex County," he said.

The state this week began partnering with poultry producers that employ thousands in Sussex County and Delaware to expand community testing and education about reducing the spread of coronavirus, particularly among minority communities.

Carney said would not say exactly how many cases had been recorded among poultry workers tested under the new efforts but noted that it was "very high." He also said the situation in Sussex County may be worse than the numbers suggest because results from recent testing events are still pending.

Delaware Health and Social Services Secretary Dr. Kara Odom Walker said minority populations in Sussex County, particularly Hispanic and Latino communities, are seeing high rates of spread for the coronavirus.

She urged people in those populations to not be afraid to seek out medical care in the event they may be infected with COVID-19.

"Do not be afraid to call a doctor if you have COVID-19," she said. "Do not be afraid if a doctor refers you for testing. And do not be afraid if you test positive."