Chester County cases spike to 102

The numbers continue to get worse.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health Friday confirmed an additional 531 positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 2,218 in 50 counties. The department also reported seven new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 22.

In Chester County, the number of coronavirus cases now total 102, with no deaths. Seven are being treated at hospitals in Chester County.

In the six days since the start of the week, Sunday, March 22, the number of presumed positive cases of Chester County residents infected with the novel coronavirus has more than tripled, from 30 on Sunday to 102 on Friday. The largest individual day jumps came on Thursday, when the numbers went from 54 to 78, and Friday, when they rose from 78 to 102.

There are 190 in Delaware County with two deaths, and 374 cases in Montgomery County, also with two deaths. The age group with the greatest number of positive coronavirus cases is 20 to 29. The municipality with the greatest number testing positive is Tredyffrin Township, with 11.

“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase, and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

There are 1,094 Chester County patients who have tested negative to date.

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 25-49, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date.

All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed, and schools are closed statewide at least through April 6. Currently 10 counties — including Chester and Delaware counties — are under stay-athome orders.

Officials continue to stress the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

•Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.

•Cover any coughs or sneezes with your elbow, not your hands.

•Clean surfaces frequently.

•Stay home to avoid spreading COVID-19, especially if you are unwell.

All Pennsylvania residents are encouraged to sign up for AlertPA, a text notification system for health, weather, and other important alerts like COVID-19 updates from commonwealth agencies. Residents can sign up online at www.ready.pa.gov/ BeInformed/Signup-ForAlerts.