Released: October 28, 2020
There have been an increased number of COVID-19 positive cases across the country, throughout the state, and in Delaware County over the past two weeks.
Public health experts cite several factors that are contributing to the increase including social gatherings resuming, people spending more time indoors due to cooler weather, and citizens not adhering to social distancing and wearing a mask in public.
The state reported 1,407 cases on October 26, bringing the total to 195,695 cases in Pennsylvania.
There have been over 1,000 cases per day over the past 21 days in the state. October 23 was the highest one-day total of positive cases since the outbreak of COVID-19, with a total of 2,219 cases.
Delaware County reported 283 cases on Monday, October 26, which includes data gathered over the weekend representing a three-day average of 98.6 cases per day.
The Chester County Health Department is reporting a rise in cases in Delaware County related to social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, parties and large dinners. Additionally, the Health Department reports that the most common exposure risks – those that have likely resulted in an individual being exposed to COVID-19 – in Delaware County continue to be a close contact of a COVID positive individual, attending or working at a school, and attending or participating in a gathering.
Delaware County residents are reminded to stay vigilant and not let their guard down. As we enter the eighth month of COVID-19, there may be fatigue or frustration. Approaching cooler weather when fewer outdoor events can be held and entering the holiday season can be especially difficult.
“Most businesses, restaurants, and schools are doing their part to safely remain open and protect customers, employees and students,” said Delaware County Council Chairman Brian Zidek. “We need to do our part. We need to take personal responsibility and remain vigilant and not let our guard down. It’s been a long eight months living through this pandemic. Some are loosening the following of, or outright ignoring public health guidance. We need to keep our guard up and continue following the guidance or we risk being moved back into a yellow or red phase.”
It is critical that all residents continue to follow the public health safety orders and guidelines put into place to reduce the spread of the virus.
Social distance of at least 6 feet from others
Wear a mask if you cannot maintain social distancing
Do not leave the home if you are sick
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
Residents are reminded to download the new COVID Alert PA app. The mobile app, launched by the Pennsylvania Department of Health last month, is a COVID-19 exposure notification to help fight the spread of the virus. COVID Alert PA is free for residents and uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) technology and the Exposure Notification System developed by Apple and Google. It’s available in the Apple App store or Google Play store and is available in English and Spanish.
The app includes:
An Interactive COVID-19 symptom checker
Alerts for potential exposures
Updates on the latest public health data
Advice for what to do if you have potential exposure to COVID-19
Getting timely alerts can help residents keep themselves healthy and get the testing and/or medical care they require and help them protect loved ones. It can help reduce the risk of unknowingly spreading the virus to friends, family, coworkers and the community. COVID Alert PA protects both the privacy and personal information of residents. The app does not use GPS, location services, or any movement or geographical information. It will never collect, transmit, or store personal information. Although usage of the app is voluntary, its success is contingent upon a significant number of people opting-in. More information, including FAQs can be found here: https://www.pa.gov/covid/covid-alert-pa/
COVID-19 Testing:
Residents who are in close contact with a person who tests positive are advised to quarantine and get tested at day 7 of their quarantine. Getting tested too early can result in a false negative result.
Information on testing in Delaware County can be found here: www.delcopa.gov/ich/resources/covid19/testing.html
Updates on COVID-19, including updated data can be found here: https://www.delcopa.gov/ich/resources/coronavirus.html