The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of midnight July 17, that there are 1,032 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 99,478. All 67 counties in Pennsylvania have cases of COVID-19.

Allegheny is reporting an increase of 240 cases and Philadelphia is reporting an increase of 163 cases.

There are 6,992 total deaths attributed to COVID-19, an increase of 19 new deaths reported. County-specific information and a statewide map are available on the COVID-19 Data Dashboard.

“As the state has put in place new mitigation efforts to offset recent case increases, we must renew our commitment to protecting against COVID-19 by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing and following the requirements set forth in the orders for bars and restaurants, gatherings and telework,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvania has been a model for the country on how to reopen effectively using a careful, measured approach.

“However, we know the virus has not gone away as we see cases rise, so we must work together to stop another surge.”

Mask-wearing is required in all businesses and whenever leaving home. Consistent mask-wearing is critical to preventing the spreadof COVID-19.

Most of the patients hospitalized are ages 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older.

Locally, Carbon County has increased by six cases to 315 positives.

Lehigh County has 4,519 cases, an increase of 24.

In Luzerne County, five new cases are reported for a total of 3,047.

In Monroe County, one new case reported for a total of 1,488.

In Northampton County, 13 new cases are reported for a total of 3,614.

In Schuylkill County, three new cases are reported. The total is 795.

The department is seeing significant increases in the number of COVID-19 cases among younger age groups, particularly 19 to 24-year-olds.

An alert was sent to healthcare providers about the changing COVID-19 case demographics, as there are more cases in younger age groups than in those 50-64 and 65+.

Protect yourself

The Wolf Administration stresses the role Pennsylvanians play in helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19:

• 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.

• If you must go out, you are required to wear a mask when in a business or where it is difficult to maintain proper social distancing.