According to data provided by Pennsylvania health officials over 60% of Pennsylvanians infected residents have recovered from COVID-19 as 451 new cases were reported Tuesday. The number of those affected by the pandemic in the state now stands at 68,500.
There were also another thirteen coronavirus related deaths, bringing Pennsylvania’s death toll to 5,152.
“As Pennsylvania continues to move forward in the process to reopen, we need to remember that the threat from COVID-19 has not gone away,” Health Secretary Dr. Rachel Levine said. “As counties move into the yellow and green phases, we must take personal responsibility to protect others. Wearing a mask, continuing to maintain social distancing, and washing your hands frequently are all steps we can take to help protect others, including our most vulnerable Pennsylvanians, our essential workers and our healthcare system.”
You can read: More Pennsylvania counties move to the yellow phase
Health officials reported that 61% of the people who have tested positive for the virus are considered to be fully recovered, meaning it has been more than 30 days since the date of their positive test or onset of symptoms.
The number of infections is thought to be far higher than the state’s confirmed case count because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected without feeling sick.
There is reason to believe that the number of infections is much higher than the number of confirmed cases. This is because a significant number of people have not been tested, and studies suggest that people may have asymptomatic conditions.
For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in a couple of weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are at higher risk of more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.