RI's Data Mixed, But Christmas and New Years Impact Looms Hospitalizations in Rhode Island have dropped to 412 — although there are growing concerns that Christmas travel will spark another surge in cases both in the United States and in Rhode Island. Deaths in Rhode Island have risen to 1,742 after 38 deaths over the extended weekend. But public health experts -- including former RI Director of Heath Dr. Michael Fine -- warn about the potential impact of Christmas travel and gatherings as well as New Year's celebrations. Fine said that he expects to see hospitalizations in Rhode Island to significantly increase in January as a result of the holidays.