Maryland's COVID-19 case spike is especially evident in Baltimore City, where the case rate is reaching levels not seen since January.

For the fourth consecutive day, Maryland topped 1,000 new COVID-19 cases in a single day, and 16 people died in the past 24 hours from COVID-19 complications.

Hospitalizations dipped slightly in the past day with 12 people leaving the state's hospitals; however, six more patients required intensive care treatment.

The pace was steady Friday as people got at the M&T Bank Stadium COVID-19 mass vaccination site in downtown Baltimore.

"I'm here now getting my second shot. Everyone should get their shot and stay safe," said Khaaliq Canada, who got vaccinated.

The stadium site is one of two state-run mass vaccination sites in Baltimore City with dedicated appointments for city residents.

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According to the most recent state data, Baltimore City's daily case rate is 43.35 cases per 100,000 people, which is the highest of any jurisdiction in Maryland, far outpacing the statewide rate of 22.91 and close to the city's last peak in January of 45.66.

"I'm sure after enough people get it, the numbers will start to go down," said Leena Baradwaja, who got vaccinated. "I'm still going to be wearing my mask. I'm not going to be going on any vacations right now or anything soon, but I feel like the only thing I can do right now to do my part is to get vaccinated."

"It's so important to stay vigilant and continue to wear the masks, get the vaccines," said Darrin Sprouse, who got vaccinated.

In a virtual briefing Friday, Johns Hopkins epidemiologist Dr. Jennifer Nuzzo made a connection between rising cases and easing restrictions.