PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Public Health announced 665 cases of COVID-19 today. This brings the number of confirmed cases to 14,468.
The Department of Public Health continues to see an uptick in positive cases in congregated settings, such as nursing homes, behavioral and occupational health centers, and the Department of Prisons. Two additional inmates have tested positive for COVID-19. 65 inmates in total are sick with coronavirus.
Also, 66 deaths from COVID-19 were confirmed in Philadelphia. 607 people have lost their lives in the city as a result of this virus. Three hundred and forty people (or 56% of deaths) have occurred in nursing homes.
The Department of Public Health reports that 964 COVID-19 patients are hospitalized in Philadelphia, with a total of 1,773 people hospitalized in the region (this figure includes Philadelphia County).
Increase in fines for violations of COVID-19 orders: Yesterday, the City of Philadelphia Board of Health approved a new regulation that increases penalties for noncompliance with the series of orders that the City has issued due to the pandemic of the COVID-19. Previously, the maximum fine for all violations of COVID-19 orders was $ 300. The changes are as follows:
For companies: The fine for noncompliance with commercial operation orders or any other regulation related to those orders is now $ 2,000 per violation.
For individuals: The fine for noncompliance with orders is a $ 500 fine for violation.
Law enforcement officials also have the discretion to issue Code Violation Notices (CVNs) to allow for the payment of lesser amounts for order violations, to avoid, thus bringing individuals to court. fined. These notices are:
$ 700 for infractions subject to a $ 2,000 fine.
$ 250 for infractions subject to a $ 500 fine.
Essential City Operations: The mayor reminded residents that most City offices and operations will continue to be closed until further notice. City employees and the public will be duly notified when the City identifies which operations and offices will begin to reopen on a limited basis. Many services continue to operate online or by phone. Residents with questions about operating services should visit www.phila.gov or call 3-1-1.
Testing Centers: A list of testing centers can be found on the City’s website.
The Philadelphia Department of Public Health, along with the Philadelphia Federation of Health, is working with the Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in Philadelphia to expand testing capabilities in underserved communities. The recommended criteria for administering the tests are as follows:
People over 50 years old and presenting symptoms.
People under 50 who are at high risk for serious illness due to chronic conditions and are symptomatic.
Health workers (broadly defined) who are symptomatic or asymptomatic with close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case.
The testing center located in downtown Philadelphia is operating and testing only for those who are over 50 years old and show symptoms consistent with the coronavirus, as well as for healthcare workers who have symptoms. The site is available by appointment only and a GP referral is required. Those who meet the criteria and need proof can call (267) 491-5870 to get an appointment.
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