Centre County up to 9 confirmed coronavirus cases, state Department of Health says
Centre County gained one new case Thursday of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, bringing the total number of cases in the county to nine, according to the state Department of Health.
The county saw its first case of the novel coronavirus on Friday.
There are currently 1,687 cases in Pennsylvania, with 16 resulting in deaths, up from 11 on Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Penn State confirmed its first case of the virus on its University Park campus.
Cases totals from nearby counties are as follows:
- Blair County: 1
- Clearfield County: 2
- Cambria County: 1
- Juniata County: 1
Clinton, Huntingdon, Mifflin and Cameron counties have no confirmed cases as of Thursday, according to the state Department of Health.
Anyone who believes they came into contact with someone who might have the coronavirus is advised to monitor their health and call their primary care provider if they develop symptoms, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Symptoms include cough, fever and shortness of breath. Symptoms can appear in as few as two or as long as 14 days after exposure.
“Practicing social distancing is key to slowing the spread of the virus,” Dr. Christopher Hester of Mount Nittany Physician Group Internal Medicine said on Wednesday. “We thank those of you who are already staying at home whenever possible. You’re still connecting with friends and loved ones through video chats, social media or just over the telephone — proving that meaningful social connections can happen at a safe distance.
“Staying at home in this urgent moment is our best defense to turn the tide against COVID-19. Doctors, nurses and health care workers are staying at work for you. Please stay at home for us.”
The DOH and CDC recommend washing your hands with soap and water, avoiding touching your eyes, nose, face and mouth, practicing social distancing, staying home if you are sick and covering coughs and sneezes.
“I cannot stress enough how imperative it is to practice social distancing,” Dr. Brian Newcomb of Mount Nittany Medical Center’s emergency department said Wednesday. “Whenever possible, please stay at home. Avoid public spaces and do not attend or host large gatherings. If you must go out, keep at least six feet between yourself and others.
“Practicing social distancing can significantly help to slow the spread of COVID-19. Physicians, nurses and our entire medical community are urging all people to stay at home. We are honored to serve and protect our community. But we need your help.”
This story was originally published March 26, 2020 at 12:29 PM.
