Parties, Funerals, More Causing Delco Coronavirus Case Increases

DELAWARE COUNTY, PA — Health officials say increasing case counts of coronavirus in Delaware County are tied to social gatherings and urge residents to avoid situations that can lead to spread.

On Monday, 283 new cases were reported in Delaware County.

That 283 case figure includes cases identified over the weekend, representing a three-day average of 98.6 cases per day.

The Chester County Health Department — which is overseeing Delaware County's health needs as Delco works to establish its own health department — reports Delco's case increase is tie to social gatherings such as weddings, funerals, parties and large dinners.

Additionally, the health officials say 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 with a person who tested positive, attending or working at a school, and attending or participating in a gathering.

Residents who are in close contact with a person who tests positive are advised to quarantine and get tested at day seven of their quarantine. Getting tested too early can result in a false negative result.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health on Tuesday reported 2,751 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 198,446. There have been over 1,000 cases per day over the past 21 days in the state.

Twenty-three new deaths were also reported Tuesday, bringing Pennsylvania's total coronavirus death toll to 8,696.

Delaware County residents are reminded to stay vigilant and not let their guard down. As we enter the eighth month of the coronavirus pandemic, 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," Delaware County Council Chairman Brian Zidek said. "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."

Residents are urged to follow the guidance below to prevent the virus's spread:

• 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 also reminded of the COVID Alert PA app.

The mobile app, launched by the Pennsylvania Department of Health last month, is a coronavirus exposure notification to help fight the spread of the virus.

Learn more about the app here.

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