Greater Harrisburg's Community Magazine

COVID-19 cases increase to 185 in PA, including first cases in 3 midstate counties

PA Department of Health map, with counties shaded that have reported COVID-19 cases.

The coronavirus continues its spread throughout Pennsylvania, with the commonwealth today announcing 52 more cases, including the first cases in Adams, Lancaster and Lebanon counties.

In its daily update, the state Department of Health reported 185 COVID-19 cases in all, up from 133 reported yesterday.

The department said that several new counties had confirmed cases, including two cases in Lancaster County and one each in Lebanon and Adams counties.

Elsewhere in central PA, Cumberland County has 11 confirmed cases and York County two confirmed cases. The department still has not confirmed any cases in Dauphin County.

Late yesterday, the department also confirmed the first coronavirus-related death in the commonwealth, a man from Northampton County.

“Our notable increase in cases over the last few days and our first death in Pennsylvania indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” said Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine.

According to the state Department of Health, 1,793 people have been tested for COVID-19, with 1,608 testing negative.

Levine continued to emphasize that Pennsylvanians should do the following:

  • 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.

“Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe,” Levine said. “We have seen case counts continue to increase, and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

For more information, visit the PA Department of Health’s COVID-19 website.

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