NEW CORONAVIRUS cases in Orange County rose in Friday’s report (Shutterstock).

The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Orange County continues on its upward trajectory.

According to the county health agency, new cases rose on Friday to 431 from 304 the day before. There were no deaths, but hospitalizations rose from 149 to 156 and patients being treated for COVID-19 in intensive care units increased from 39 to 44.

To date, there have been 260,720 coronavirus cases in the county, of which 250,887 have been judged recovered. Deaths to date are at 5,138.

At the national level, the New York Times is reporting that new cases – over a 14-day period – have increased by 180 percent, and deaths by 30 percent.

In California, Los Angeles Times calculates that cases are up 233 percent over a similar period, and deaths by 11 percent.