PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Public Health today announced 651 additional presumptive confirmed cases of COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Philadelphia. That brings the number of confirmed cases to 11,877.

The Department of Public Health again noted clusters of positive cases in congregate settings, including nursing homes, behavioral health facilities, and the Department of Prisons. Nine additional inmates have tested positive. The current total of positive cases at correctional facilities is 62.

The Department of Public Health confirmed six additional fatalities in Philadelphia. This brings the number of residents who have succumbed to the virus in Philadelphia to 449. Of the 449 total deaths, 236 (53%) were long-term care facility residents.

The Department of Public Health reports 1,013 patients with COVID-19 are currently being treated in Philadelphia hospitals, with a total of 1,881 people hospitalized in the region (including Philadelphia).

Federal Aid Package: Mayor Kenney commented on the latest federal aid package passed by Congress, which provides more money for the Paycheck Protection Program, hospitals, and testing. “While we’re grateful that this latest package passed, it is another reminder that many pressing issues still exist that must be addressed,” said Mayor Kenney. “As I’ve said before, governments are in desperate need of direct and flexible aid to help with revenue losses that have resulted from the economic disruption. Without it, cities, counties, and states across the country will be facing a total of hundreds of billions in deficits and the hard choices that will be required will certainly not help with economic recovery. Cities and states are on the front line fighting COVID-19, and they shouldn’t have to sacrifice vital services their residents need because of ideological differences at the federal level.”

PHL COVID-19 Fund Update: The PHL COVID-19 Fund has secured more than $15 million in gifts and pledges to date. Yesterday the PHL COVID-19 Fund announced its third round of grants, awarding more than $2.5 million to 72 non-profit organizations serving on the front lines of the coronavirus crisis. Over $7.3 million has been distributed to 195 nonprofit organizations that are providing vital services to individuals facing the wide-ranging and urgent consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic in the region.

Philly 311 Hours: Philly311’s contact center remains open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m Monday through Friday and will also be open extended hours of 8 a.m. to 8 p.m this weekend, April 25 and 26. Residents can place a service request by calling 3-1-1 or dialing (215) 686-8686 or through submitting service requests online. Language translation services are available.

Testing Sites: The Philadelphia Department of Public Health, along with the Health Federation of Philadelphia, is working with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) in Philadelphia to expand testing capabilities in underserved communities. Twelve additional testing sites were announced on Thursday, April 23.

Recommended criteria for testing eligibility at the sites are:

  • Age 50+ and symptomatic.
  • People under 50 who are at high risk for severe illness due to chronic conditions and are symptomatic.
  • Health care workers (defined broadly) who are symptomatic or are asymptomatic with close contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case.

The City-run location in Center City continues to serve those who are over the age of 50 and are displaying symptoms consistent with COVID-19 coronavirus, as well as health care workers who are displaying symptoms consistent with COVID-19 coronavirus. The site is available by appointment only and a referral is required. Those who meet the criteria and want a test can call (267) 491-5870 to obtain a referral.

Additional private testing sites are being run by hospital systems and other organizations across the city. A list of available testing sites is provided on the City’s website.
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