Harrisburg, PA – The Pennsylvania Department of Health confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., November 14, that there were 5,551 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 259,938. This is the highest daily increase of cases.
The most accurate daily data is available on the website, with archived data also available.
The number of tests administered within the last 7 days between November 7 and November 13 is 366,928 with 30,437 positive cases. There were 52,408 test results reported to the department through 10 p.m., November 13.
As of 11:59 p.m., Friday, November 13, there were 50 new deaths reported for a total of 9,274 deaths attributed to COVID-19. County-specific information and a statewide map are available on the COVID-19 Data Dashboard.
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DuBois, PA – Penn Highlands Healthcare is urging everyone not to relax about the important safety precautions that have keep COVID-19 from completely overwhelming our area so far.
Dr. Shaun Sheehan, leader of the COVID-29 Task Force at the hospital, says that masks are effective in slowing the spread of the virus… as long as they are worn correctly. Your mask should cover your mouth and nose.
Dr. Sheehan stated during the media conference phone call that lockdowns cause substantial economic impacts in comparison to the amount that they delay or reduce spread of the virus. Instead, he said, “Let’s not get to the point of lockdowns.”
The upcoming cold, dry weather and people gathering for holidays will likely increase the number of cases. It’s important to continue to practice social distancing, avoid large gatherings, wash your hands frequently, wear a mask in public, and stay home if you feel sick.
COVID-19 unit that was able to be reverted back to a regular hospital area back in spring has now again been designated as a space just for COVID patients.
Although cases are rising, Penn Highlands officials say they feel prepared and are better equipped to handle a surge than what they were in the spring.
Officials also urge you to not delay going to the hospital if you have a medical issue. Catching a sickness early can sometimes mean the difference between life and death. Do not delay going to the hospital, especially for emergencies or even routine treatments.
Mark Norman, CEO of Penn Highlands Healthcare, and Dr. Shaun Sheehan, leader of the COVID-19 task force at the hospital, give an update of the spread of COVID-19 in our area. They talk about how many cases have been handled at the hospital, whether we are ready for a fall surge, and what we can do to help slow the spread.
This media conference was recorded via phone on Nov. 12, 2020.
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Harrisburg, PA – 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 8,089 individuals who have a positive viral antigen test and are considered probable cases and 644 individuals who have a positive serology test and either COVID-19 symptoms or a high-risk exposure.
There are 2,538147 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;
- Approximately 13% 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 2,314 individuals hospitalized with COVID-19. Of that number, 480 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.
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 providers 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 20 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 nearly 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 29,296 resident cases of COVID-19, and 6,074 cases among employees, for a total of 35,370 at 1,148 distinct facilities in 64 counties. Out of our total deaths, 6,059 have occurred in residents from nursing or personal care facilities. A county breakdown can be found here.
Approximately 13,403 of our total cases are among health care workers.
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 Report
- Press releases regarding coronavirus
- Latest information on the coronavirus
- Photos of the state’s lab in Exton (for download and use)
- Coronavirus and preparedness graphics (located at the bottom of the page)
- Community preparedness and procedures materials
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-Alerts.
