Forty six (46) new cases added Wednesday in Lycoming County remains at 1,173 cases, no new deaths, 32 total deaths, with 17,081 negatives according to DOH report.

Department of Health Provides Update on COVID-19:

Highest Daily  Increase of 4,711 Additional Positives Brings Statewide Total to 243,368

Pennsylvanians Urged to Download COVID Alert PA App

Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., November 11, that there were 4,711 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 243,368. This is the highest daily increase of cases.

The most accurate daily data is available on the websiteOpens In A New Window, with archived data also availableOpens In A New Window.

The number of tests administered within the last 7 days between November 4 and November 10 is 354,972 with 23,786 positive cases. There were 43,158 PCR test results reported to the department through 10 p.m., November 10.

As of 11:59 p.m., Monday, November 10, there were 59 new deaths reported for a total of 9,145 deaths attributed to COVID-19. County-specific information and a statewide map are available on the COVID-19 Data Dashboard. Opens In A New Window

Mask-wearing is required in all businesses and whenever leaving home. Consistent mask-wearing is critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19.

There are 6,208 individuals who have a positive viral antigen test and are considered probable cases and 645 individuals who have a positive serology test and either COVID-19 symptoms or a high-risk exposure.

There are 2,888,761 individuals who have tested negative to date. Of those who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

• Approximately 1% are ages 0-4;
• Approximately 2% are ages 5-12;
• Approximately 5% are ages 13-18;
• Nearly 14% are ages 19-24;
• Approximately 36% are ages 25-49;
• Approximately 21% are ages 50-64; and
• Approximately 20% are ages 65 or older.

There are 1,948 individuals hospitalized with COVID-19. Of that number, 417 patients are in the intensive care unit with COVID-19. Most of the patients hospitalized are ages 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. More data is available here.Opens In A New Window

The department has seen significant increases in the number of COVID-19 cases among younger age groups, particularly 19 to 24-year-olds. An alert was sent to healthcare providersOpens In A New Window about the changing COVID-19 case demographics. Increases among 19 to 24-year-olds from April to present in November are available below:

• NC – Approximately 7 percent of cases in April to nearly 22 percent of cases so far in November;
• NE – 6 percent of cases in April to nearly 14 percent of cases so far in November;
• SE – Nearly 5 percent of cases in April to 11 percent of cases so far in November;
• SW – Approximately 5 percent of cases in April to approximately 11 percent of cases so far in November;
• NW – Nearly 7 percent of cases in April to approximately 11 percent of cases so far in November; and
• SC – Approximately 7 percent of cases in April to approximately 9 percent of cases so far in November.

In nursing and personal care homes, there are 28,142 resident cases of COVID-19, and 5,932 cases among employees, for a total of 34,077 at 1,126 distinct facilities in 63 counties. Out of our total deaths, 5,922 have occurred in residents from nursing or personal care facilities. A county breakdown can be found here.Opens In A New Window

Approximately 13,036 of our total cases are among health care workers.

Statewide – The Wolf Administration has since noon, Nov. 10:

• Provided the latest CMU metrics report.
• Commended President-elect Biden on coronavirus task force.
• Provided Pennsylvania State Police enforcement data.

The Wolf Administration stresses 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.
• If you must go out, you are required to wear a mask when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.
• Download the COVID Alert PA app and make your phone part of the fight. The free app can be found in the Google Play StoreOpens In A New Window and the Apple App StoreOpens In A New Window by searching for “covid alert pa”.

Updated Coronavirus Links: Press Releases, State Lab Photos, Graphics

• Daily COVID-19 ReportOpens In A New Window
• Press releases regarding coronavirusOpens In A New Window
• Latest information on the coronavirusOpens In A New Window
• Photos of the state’s lab in ExtonOpens In A New Window (for download and use)
• Coronavirus and preparedness graphicsOpens In A New Window (located at the bottom of the page)
• Community preparedness and procedures materialsOpens In A New Window

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-For-AlertsOpens In A New Window.

Harrisburg, PA – Governor Tom Wolf commended President-elect Joe Biden for selecting former Pennsylvania Department of Education Secretary Pedro Rivera to serve on the agency review team for the U.S. Department of Education. The review teams are comprised of experts who will help to ensure a smooth transition of power to the Biden Administration.

“Pedro Rivera was an excellent secretary of education for Pennsylvania and he is a tremendous choice by President-elect Biden to help prepare the education efforts of the next administration,” said Gov. Wolf. “Pedro’s leadership was critical to rebuilding strong relationships to local school communities and improving the quality of education in our state.

“Under Pedro Rivera’s leadership, Pennsylvania reduced the overreliance on standardized testing, adopted a landmark basic education funding formula, created the innovative Future Ready PA Index and more. I am proud that Pedro served in my cabinet and I look forward to his efforts to help set the values and priorities of the incoming administration.”

After serving as Pennsylvania secretary of education since Gov. Wolf took office in 2015, Rivera became president of Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology on Oct. 1. He was previously the superintendent of the School District of Lancaster.

Harrisburg, PA – Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine today announced that as of November 7, there have been 383 laboratory-confirmed flu cases and one flu-associated death statewide, the first of the 2020-2021 flu season. As flu season intensifies, the department urges Pennsylvanians to get their flu vaccine if they have not already done so.

“As flu season is still in the beginning stages, now is the time to get your flu vaccine, if you haven’t already, and practice flu safety,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “It is more important than ever to get your flu vaccine amidst the COVID-19 pandemic to protect yourself, your loved ones, and health care workers who are caring for people sick with respiratory illness, from contracting the flu. We know that people who get the flu after being vaccinated have a less severe case and are not sick as long as those who do not get vaccinated.”

The vaccines are available as a flu shot for anyone six months or older and as a flu shot or nasal spray for anyone two or older. Flu vaccines are available at your doctor’s office, pharmacy, local walk-in clinic or grocery store.

The first death was reported to the department during the Week 45 (ending 11/7/2020) update. The individual was in the 50-64-year-old age group.

Flu activity is low across the commonwealth. There are flu cases in 26 of the 67 counties. Influenza A and B have been identified by laboratory testing. The percent of outpatient visits associated with Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) has been low and is still below the state epidemic threshold. A total of nine influenza associated hospitalizations have been reported in Pennsylvania during the current flu season.

Flu is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus. It attacks the nose, throat and lungs and may include the following symptoms:

• Fever;
• Headache;
• Tiredness;
• Dry cough;
• Sore throat;
• Nasal congestion; and
• Body aches.

In addition to getting vaccinated, Pennsylvanians are encouraged to practice healthy habits such as covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, frequently washing your hands, and remembering to disinfect commonly touched objects including door knobs, light switches, countertops, cell phones and computers. Furthermore, Pennsylvanians are encouraged to practice COVID-19 safety measures such as wearing a mask, social distancing, and downloading the COVID Alert PA app.

If you do become sick with the flu, it is imperative that you stay home. If you are at risk for developing serious complications from the flu, or feel extremely ill, you should see a medical professional immediately.

For more information on the 2020-2021 flu season, click here.

Additional information on how to stay healthy and prevent the spread of flu and COVID-19 can be found on the Department of Health’s website, Facebook, and Twitter.

The Wolf Administration stresses the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of the flu and 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.
• If you must go out, you are required to wear a mask when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.
• Download the COVID Alert PA app and make your phone part of the fight. The free app can be found in the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store by searching for “covid alert pa”.

Harrisburg, PA – As COVID-19 cases reach record-highs in Pennsylvania and across the country, Governor Tom Wolf today thanked and commended President-elect Joe Biden for making fighting the COVID-19 pandemic a priority, and on the introduction of his coronavirus task force that includes public health experts with ties to Pennsylvania.

“It is reassuring to see President-elect Biden take this virus seriously and move forward with a task force that is focused on science and reality,” Gov. Wolf said. “The members of his task force are some of the most respected public health experts in the country, including two Philadelphia-area physicians.”

“We need leadership that is consistent and committed to ending this pandemic, to saving lives and livelihoods, and to making decisions based on facts and science. I commend President-elect Biden for the team he has put together to lead the country out of this very difficult period.”

Harrisburg, PA – Governor Tom Wolf announced new apprenticeship programs in Southcentral and Southeastern Pennsylvania in water treatment, abatement, and industrial manufacturing and mechatronics. The Wolf Administration is commitment to helping workers increase their skills and attracting more businesses throughout the commonwealth.

“Every Pennsylvanian deserves a chance to build a rewarding career and provide for their family through a sustaining wage,” said Gov. Wolf. “Apprenticeships enable students and workers to get hands-on experience and learn the necessary skills needed for in-demand careers, all while earning a paycheck from their employer. We are investing in apprenticeships across the commonwealth to ensure that Pennsylvania has the most prepared and talented workforce in the country.”

The Department of Labor & Industry’s Apprenticeship and Training Office (ATO) recently approved a group, non-joint apprenticeship program with Mifflin Academy of Science & Technology in Lewistown, for Water Systems Operation Specialists. The Academy will partner with the Municipal Authority of the Borough of Lewistown to provide the program-related instruction.

“The Academy is proud to continue our support of local employers and registered apprenticeships through this program,” said Mike McMonigal, supervisor of adult and post-secondary education at Mifflin County Academy of Science and Technology. “Our partnership with the Municipal Authority of the Borough of Lewistown further demonstrates how industry and education can work together to develop a skilled workforce for our community.”

The Baxter Group, Inc. recently registered an individual, non-joint apprenticeship program for abatement supervisors. They have partnered with Aerosol Monitoring and Training to establish these construction/maintenance training programs.

“From the moment I reached out for more information on establishing an Apprenticeship Program and throughout the entire approval process, the representatives and committee members generously provided guidance and direction,” said Jocelyne Melton, CEO of the Baxter Group, Inc. “We are very excited to be able to offer such an opportunity and strive to make our company one of the best companies to work for in Franklin County, thus creating a journey of success to our employees.”

Lastly, the German American Chamber of Commerce Philadelphia (GACC Philadelphia) registered a group, non-joint apprenticeship program in partnership with the Northampton Community College and Lehigh Carbon Community College. The training provided will support an industrial manufacturing and mechatronics technician with the manufacturing industry.

“The German American Chamber of Commerce places companies at the center of training and aligns curriculum with strategic academic partners such as community colleges and high schools,” said Susanne Rehse, executive director of GACC Philadelphia. “We carefully design and oversee these programs to ensure they are sustainable for the host companies, the apprentices, and the surrounding communities.”

The Wolf Administration established the ATO in 2016 to support and expand registered apprenticeship programs statewide. The office provides outreach, education, and technical support to current and prospective apprenticeship program sponsors and apprentices.

“Reskilling programs are a critical tool to adapt and rebuild our workforce to respond to changes in the economy caused by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said L&I Secretary Jerry Oleksiak. “Apprenticeships are a great opportunity for Pennsylvanians to earn a steady paycheck while learning the skills needed for the jobs that will exist in this new economy.”

Since the ATO was created in early 2016, the office has registered 180 new program sponsors and 274 new occupations, bringing the total number of registered apprentices to 17,966 statewide.

Apprenticeship programs are used to provide employer-driven training to create a more productive, diverse, highly skilled workforce for employers and help reduce employee turnover. The program provides job seekers with increased skills, and a nationally recognized credential to support future career advancement and increased wages.

Visit ATO for more information about apprenticeship programs and the Apprenticeship and Training Office.

Harrisburg, PA – The Wolf Administration today began distribution of the fifth allotment of COVID-19 antigen test kits provided by the federal government to Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA)-certified institutions in Armstrong, Dauphin, Delaware and Indiana counties.

“Antigen test cards are a timely, quick and easy-to-use tool for communities to receive rapid COVID-19 testing,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “These test kits, provided by the federal government and being distributed to areas in need by the Wolf Administration, will further help communities struggling with the spread of COVID-19. Antigen tests look for pieces of proteins that make up the SARS-CoV-2 virus and are less sensitive than PCR tests for detecting COVID-19 infections.”

Last week, 371,480 tests were distributed to 15 facilities in Elk, Lawrence, Mifflin and Philadelphia counties. Philadelphia distributed all 353,280 of their allotment during week four. Additional tests will be provided to health care providers in those counties in the coming weeks. Archived lists of distributions since week one can be found on the Department of Health’s Coronavirus Symptoms & Testing webpage under the Antigen Tests subhead.

The antigen test detects an antigen on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus while the Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test detects viral RNA. Both PCR and antigen tests can detect active infection and are considered diagnostic. Antigen tests can be considered for symptomatic individuals (within the first five to seven days of symptom onset) and in asymptomatic individuals in settings where there is a high probability that the individual to be tested is positive, such as when they are a close contact of a case.

On October 15, the Secretary of Health issued an Order to health care providers and facilities reinforcing that all antigen test results, both positive and negative, are required to be reported to the Department of Health. A patient with a positive antigen test result is considered a case and receives a complete case investigation and contact tracing. All entities conducting testing to identify SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, are required by law to report positive, inconclusive/indeterminate, and negative results to the National Electronic Disease Surveillance System (PA-NEDSS) within 24 hours. All laboratory reporters must request a PA-NEDSS account if they do not already have one.

The department anticipates receiving hundreds of thousands of tests over a number of weeks from the federal government. The department will continue to provide kits to counties in need.

CLIA-certified sites include:

• All long-term care facilities;
• Higher-education institutions;
• Drug and alcohol and behavioral health treatment centers;
• State and county correctional facilities;
• Healthcare providers:
  • Federally Qualified Health Centers;
  • Urgent Care Centers;
  • Pharmacies; and
  • Primary Care doctors.

The targeted populations will be tested at CLIA-certified sites that directly receive these test kits and can provide timely test results and health care advice during their visit.

Targeted populations include:

• Individuals in congregate care settings;
• Day care workers or clients;
• K-12 students and adults who work in K-12 settings;
• College and university students;
• Individuals without permanent housing;
• Food distribution facility employees;
• Food workers, and
• First responders.

For more information about the CLIA certificate and antigen test card reporting, reference the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA) Health Advisory Network (HAN) Advisory:  Guidance on Reporting Point of Care SARS-CoV-2 Test Results.

For more information about the antigen tests, reference the PA HAN Advisory:  Point of Care Antigen Test Use and Interpretation.

For the latest information for individuals, families, businesses and schools, visit “Responding to COVID-19” on pa.gov.

Harrisburg, Pa. — Secretary of State Kathy Boockvar today reported that the counties continue to canvass ballots cast in the November 3 general election. With estimates from all counties, approximately 10,000 mail ballots were received by counties between 8 p.m. Nov. 3 and 5 p.m. Nov. 6. Additionally, approximately 94,000 provisional ballots were issued to voters at the polls on Election Day.

“The counties have done an impressive job counting a record number of mail ballots and now are canvassing the provisional ballots, each of which must be considered individually,” Secretary of Boockvar said. “Millions of Pennsylvanians voted and made their voices heard in a free, fair and open election last week. I am so proud of the election officials and poll workers who worked tirelessly, amid a pandemic, so voters could decide this election.” 

Counties continue to adjudicate and count the provisional ballots cast on Election Day. Under state law, county boards of election must individually adjudicate each provisional ballot and assess whether they meet the standards for counting. The counties do so by verifying the voter was registered to vote in the precinct in which the ballot was cast, and that the voter did not cast a mail-in ballot prior to requesting the provisional ballot at the polling place.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled in September that counties should count mail ballots received through 5 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, if they are postmarked by 8 p.m. Election Day. The court also ruled that counties should count those ballots if there is an illegible or missing postmark, unless there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that the ballot was mailed after the Election Day deadline.

The department also reported that 27,650 of the 37,239 uniformed and overseas citizens absentee (UOCAVA) ballots have been returned and counted so far. Today was the deadline for counties to receive voted UOCAVA ballots submitted for delivery by 11:59 p.m. on Nov. 2.

Harrisburg, PA – The Department of Agriculture today released data related to COVID-19 restaurant enforcement actions from November 2 through November 8, 2020. The information is specific to COVID-19 mitigation requirements for restaurants including social distancing, masking, and occupancy limits.

These numbers include actions taken during routine food safety inspections and inspections prompted by consumer complaints.

From November 2 through November 8, the Bureau of Food Safety performed 675 total inspections, 20 of which were complaint-driven; 15 were COVID-19 specific complaints. The bureau distributed 35 COVID-19 complaint-driven educational letters. Eight COVID-19 related complaints were referred to local and county health jurisdictions. Five formal Warning Letters were issued. Two citations were filed.

A county by county breakdown of COVID-19 restaurant enforcement actions can be found on the Department of Agriculture’s website. The data will be updated weekly, with data from the previous week.

Among other requirements, all businesses in the restaurant and retail food service industry authorized to conduct in-person activities are mandated to:

• Require all customers to wear a mask while entering, exiting, or otherwise traveling through the restaurant or retail food service business (mask may be removed while seated).
• Employees are required to wear masks at all times.
• Provide at least six feet between parties at tables or physical barriers between customers where booths are arranged back to back.
• Ensure maximum occupancy limits for indoor and outdoor areas are posted and enforced.

The Bureau of Food Safety has always operated with an education-first model, and always works to educate and correct on-site before taking official action. Businesses unwilling to correct on-site will first receive a warning letter, followed by monetary citations ranging from $25 to $300 per offense. Following an initial warning, food safety inspectors will follow up with unannounced inspections to ensure compliance or issue citations as necessary.

Consumers with general food safety complaints or concerns about non-compliance for COVID-19 mitigation can file a report online. COVID-19 mitigation restaurant enforcement actions will be released on a weekly basis.

For more information about the Department of Agriculture’s COVID-19 response, visit agriculture.pa.gov/covid.