Philadelphia St Patrick's Day Parade Canceled Due To Coronavirus

PHILADELPHIA — The 250th St. Patrick's Day Parade in Philadelphia has been canceled due to concerns regarding the novel coronavirus in the city, according to parade organizers.

St. Patrick's Day Observance Association Tuesday night decided to cancel the parade and all events related to it.

The decision comes after health officials in the city confirmed one person in Philadelphia is being treated for a presumed case of novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19. Tuesday night health officials said 17 people in the city are being investigated for the illness.

After announcing the positive case in the city, officials urged the public to avoid all large gatherings of 5,000 people or more, such as the parade and sporting events.

Such events should be watched on TV at home, officials said Tuesday.

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The St. Patrick's Day Observance Association said the cancellation came following "heartfelt consideration and serious conversation with officials from the City of Philadelphia."

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"This decision was made with significant input from civic and parade participants," the association said. "While this decision is disappointing, we acted with a general concern for the well-being of everyone."

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Residents can get up to date information from the city by texting COVIDPHL to 888-777 to get notifications from ReadyPhiladelphia.

How It Spreads

The virus that causes COVID-19 is spreading from person-to-person. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others. That is why CDC recommends that these patients be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others.

There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19.

While the best way to prevent illness is to avoid virus exposure, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention always recommends taking preventive actions to contain the spread of viruses.

This includes:

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.