Pennsylvania coronavirus cases increases to 479, with new positives in Lehigh and Northampton Counties
Written by Victoria Scialfa on March 23, 2020
Pennsylvania coronavirus cases increases to 479, with new positives in Lehigh and Northampton Counties
March 23, 2020
Pennsylvania saw more big increases to the number of confirmed coronavirus cases over the weekend — with 479 reported cases statewide. That’s up 150 percent from Friday. There have been 19 positive tests in Lehigh County and 21 in Northampton, with one death locally. Multiple outlets are reporting as many as 4 deaths across the state.
State officials warn that Pennsylvania will now continue to see exponential growth – and community transmission – as the virus spreads. Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine says every effort to slow the disease down matters now.
“I know that this is a difficult and stressful time for everyone. It’s so important for everyone to follow the direction of Governor Wolf and please stay home,” says Levine.
Levine notes that the case numbers reflect only the sickest patients, so the actual totals are likely much higher. Levine says a top focus right now is sourcing more masks for health care workers and expanding the number of hospital beds.
Levine says her department will have those recommendations this week.
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