While a scenario of reopening and returning to the “new normal” prevails in the environment, the coronavirus seems to have a different agenda, as the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to represent a serious threat.
For the first time in five days, the number of daily coronavirus cases in Pennsylvania is above 1,000. Health officials reported on Thursday 1,070 new cases, bringing the statewide total to 52,915. Officials also said another 310 people died from COVID-19, raising the death toll to 3,416.
These numbers come as 24 counties in the northwestern and north-central part of the commonwealth will begin reopening Friday as they move from the red to yellow phase.
You can read: Coronavirus restrictions will be eased in 24 Pennsylvania counties
Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine urged state residents to keep the social distancing guidelines in to ensure a successful transition from the red phase to the next level.
“As we prepare to move a number of counties from red to yellow, we need all Pennsylvanians to continue to follow the social distancing and mitigation efforts in place,” Levine said.
She also highlighted the need to protect the most vulnerable groups of the population
“We must continue to protect our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians, which includes our seniors, those with underlying health issues, our healthcare workers and our first responders. I am proud of the work that Pennsylvanians have done so far, but we cannot stop now, we must continue to take the necessary steps to protect ourselves from COVID-19.”
Nearly 210,000 patients have tested negative for the virus.
The latest numbers come as 24 counties in the northwestern and north-central part of the commonwealth will begin reopening Friday as they move from the red to yellow phase.