PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Public Health today announced 1,077 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Philadelphia. That brings the number of confirmed cases to 61,780. In addition, the Department of Public Health also announced 45 new probable cases from rapid antigen tests. 

The Department of Public Health confirmed seven additional fatalities in Philadelphia. This brings the number of residents who have succumbed to the virus in Philadelphia to 1,960. Of the 1,960 total deaths, 925 (47%) were long-term care facility residents.

The Department of Public Health reports 672 patients with COVID-19 are currently being treated in Philadelphia hospitals, with a total of 53 on ventilators.

Mental Health Resources for the Holiday Week: While November and December represent a traditional time of gathering, we all know that this year is different. “There will be many of us who will have a difficult time in the coming months,” Mayor Kenney noted today. “To those individuals, I want to remind you: Nobody is alone in Philadelphia.”

Philadelphia has developed one of the nation’s best support systems—ready and able to provide care for those in need, whether they have insurance or not; and whether they want anonymous support or require highly qualified help for specific needs. Key resources for those feeling anxious at this time include:

  • Community Behavioral Health: If you have questions about where to start and need guidance navigating the system, call the 24-hour services number at 888-545-2600.
  • Mental Health Hotline: If you feel you need more immediate crisis supports or mobile emergency intervention, call our Mental Health Hotline at 215-685-6440.
  • HealthyMindsPhilly.org: If you aren’t sure whether you need help or would prefer to begin with a free, quick, anonymous self assessment, visit HealthyMindsPhilly.org.
  • MindPHLtogether.com: You can also visit MindPHLtogether.com to learn about other resources available to you.

“You’re not alone,” Mayor Kenney reminded Philadelphians. “We are here to help.”

Diabetes Awareness Month: Mayor Kenney today highlighted that November is National Diabetes Awareness Month. “The month is of added importance this year as we all face the hardships of COVID-19,” said the Mayor. “In Philadelphia and nationally, we’re seeing higher incidence of prediabetes—particularly among people of color and younger adults—in addition to seniors. Without intervention, many will go on to develop diabetes that can put them at higher risk for other chronic conditions and complications from COVID.”

A local group of stakeholders, led by the Jefferson College of Population Health, formed the Philadelphia Diabetes Prevention Collaborative (PDPC). They have been working together for the past year to fight the disease while it is still reversible. The Collaborative promotes the CDC’s National Diabetes Prevention Program, a healthy eating and exercise program launched in 2010 to address the increasing burden of Type 2 diabetes. Research has shown that participants in the program can reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 58 percent (71 percent for people over 60).

The Mayor added, “This Collaborative has brought together an amazing network of community organizations, employers, health systems and health insurance plans that are working together to make our community healthier. If you think you or a loved one might benefit from this program, visit Jefferson.edu/PreventDiabetesPHL, where you’ll find information and free resources, including a 60-second online risk test and where to find a program near you.” 

To find a local Diabetes Prevention Program starting soon, call (855) 344-2844 or email programinfor@phmc.org. 

Thanksgiving Safety: The Department of Public Health strongly encourages Philadelphians to only celebrate Thanksgiving in-person with members of their own household. Breaking bread and giving thanks via Zoom or other online video platforms is still the safest way to celebrate.

When meal planning, Philadelphians should take special care to limit their exposure to others in grocery and other food stores. Try to shop early; there’s no reason to wait until Wednesday. Be sure to wear your mask the entire time, try to shop during off-hours (either early in the morning or late at night), give plenty of distance to others in the store, and remember, if it feels too crowded you can always come back later.

Grocery and food stores should consider expanding hours to allow for more time for people to shop, encourage patrons to shop before Wednesday, to not bring family members with them when shopping, to wear their masks, and to give plenty of distance to others. Stores should also still be following the Department of Public Health’s guidance for retail. The Department of Public Health will be doing outreach and education to grocery stores and other big box retailers this week to remind them of the guidance, review existing practices, and work to implement the new Safer at Home guidance.

Food and Meal Site Updates: Because of the Thanksgiving holiday, the regular schedule for many food and meal distributions will change this week. The School District of Philadelphia will be closed for food distribution on Friday, November 27; students and caregivers can instead pick up student meals for the week (five breakfasts and five lunches) on Wednesday, November 25. Food sites listed on phila.gov/food will be closed for food distribution on Thursday, November 26. Broad Street Ministry and Thomas Paine Plaza will be closed for meal distribution on Thursday, November 26. Additional information on alternate food pick up options is available on the City’s website. 

Testing Site Map: A testing site finder at phila.gov/testing helps people find a free COVID-19 test in Philadelphia. Anyone can search for a site by address, click on a map location for specific site information, and filter by day of week and by drive-thru or walk-up.

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