US jobless claims rose by 6,000 to 222,000, but the labor market still shows signs of strength.

Jobless claims in the U.S. increased slightly by 6,000 to 222,000 for the week ending April 19, according to the Labor Department. Despite concerns about a potential economic downturn, the labor market remains strong with jobless claims staying within a healthy range of 200,000 to 250,000 over the past few years. The unemployment rate stands at 4.2%, and the country added 228,000 jobs in March.