Wrangell Sentinel -

The state reported 186 people hospitalized around Alaska on Monday, 20% more than at the worst of COVID-19 admissions last December.

Almost two dozen patients were on ventilators, the state health website reported Tuesday.

However, in perhaps a hopeful sign, case counts across Alaska are trending down the past few days.

After averaging 540 new infections a day statewide the past two weeks through Monday, and 580 new cases a day in the past week, the Labor Day weekend count averaged 403 new cases a day — though holiday weekend counts have in the past come in lower because of less reporting.

Aft...