NJ COVID-19 deaths climb by 17 to 44 in biggest jump yet

TRENTON » There have been 17 new deaths stemming from coronavirus, an increase that Gov. Phil Murphy said is New Jersey’s biggest single-day jump yet.

Murphy called the report sobering and said the state has become No. 2 in the nation for positive COVID-19 results, but said that is the result of much more testing over recent days.

The total number of positive cases climbed overnight by more than 800 and stands at nearly 3,700, the governor said. There have been a total of 44 deaths.

The virus is also continuing to take a toll on nursing homes, with the number of facilities with positive cases climbing from six last week to 19, according to Murphy. One facility is also transferring its residents and considering closing because of the virus.

Murphy also said the federal government is increasing the number of masks and respirators, but said the state still needs additional personal protective equipment for health workers.

For most people, the virus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia. The vast majority of people recover.

State health officials have recommended calling your health care provider if you have symptoms, including fever and shortness of breath. Officials also point people to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, which recommends people stay home except to get medical care.

A look at other developments:

CLOSING NURSING HOME?

Health Commissioner Judy Persichilli said that St. Joseph’s Senior Home in Woodbridge is transferring its nearly 90 patients out of the facility and may have to close because of COVID-19.

She said 12 workers at the nursing home were out of work with respiratory illness and the sisters who ran the facility called the state to say they were working around the clock to care for the residents.

The facility has been operated by the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception since 1981. It is a nonprofit Catholic facility, focused on offering a continuity of high-quality senior living, according to its website.