PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Department of Public Health today announced 408 additional confirmed cases of COVID-19 novel coronavirus in Philadelphia. That brings the number of confirmed cases to 142,422. In addition, the Department of Public Health also announced 42 new probable cases from rapid antigen tests. Today’s case count represents totals for three days, since new cases were last reported on Friday, May 14.
The Department of Public Health confirmed five additional fatalities in Philadelphia. This brings the number of residents who have succumbed to the virus in Philadelphia to 3,572. Of the 3,572 total deaths, 1,203 (34%) were long-term care facility residents.
The Department of Public Health reports 275 patients with COVID-19 are currently being treated in Philadelphia hospitals, with a total of 44 on ventilators.
Weekly Tuesday COVID-19 Press Briefing Canceled Tomorrow: Due to the primary election, the City will not be holding its weekly Tuesday COVID-19 briefing tomorrow, Tuesday, May 18. The normal schedule will resume Tuesday, May 25 at 1 p.m.
Health Department to Hold Press Briefing Featuring Acting Health Commissioner: The Health Department will be holding a virtual COVID-19 briefing on Wednesday, May 19 at 11 a.m. featuring Acting Health Commissioner Dr. Cheryl Bettigole. A media advisory with information about the event and Zoom login details will be distributed on Tuesday afternoon.
COVID-19 Resources:
- City’s COVID-19 homepage: phila.gov/covid-19.
- COVID-19 guidance in multiple languages.
- Frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 response.
- Greater Philadelphia Coronavirus Helpline: 1 (800) 722-7112.
- Residents can text COVIDPHL to 888-777 to get updates sent to their phones.
- Residents can now set their own appointments to be vaccinated at City-run clinics.
- There are multiple public transit options to get to City-run clinics.
- COVID-19 testing is available for free at sites throughout Philadelphia.
- Businesses with questions about how to comply with the City’s restrictions should email business@phila.gov.
- The COVID Prevention and Response Fund is accepting donations to aid nonprofits and individuals that are supporting their community through the pandemic.
Resources for Media:
- Recordings of COVID-19 briefings (Subtitles available in multiple languages).
- COVID-19 press releases.