The amount of people hospitalized for COVID-19 in New Jersey continues to rise, according to data released by the state Department of Health.

State officials announced 953 new positive cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, along with nine additional deaths. There are now 699 people in the hospital who are infected with the virus, up from 662 just one day ago. There were 71 people discharged today, according to the state.

Of the nearly 700 people hospitalized, 168 are in intensive care and 58 are on ventilators.

This comes as some health experts say that the plexiglass dividers some businesses are using to protect their workers may not protect against the virus as much as previously thought. The experts say that COVID-19 is carried through small particles and those particles can go around the glass.

Plexiglass has not been scientifically proven to shield droplets that spread from sneezing, coughing or talking. They say that the dividers are best used in addition to face masks and social distancing.

Meanwhile, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says that household gatherings are contributing to a spike in COVID-19 cases around the country. Health officials warn that things may get worse in the colder weather as more people have guests inside.

Officials are also concerned about the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday and are urging people to consider an outdoor lunch or dinner for the holiday.