In a release on it's corporate website, Wal-Mart says:

​Regulating Store Entry

Starting Saturday, we will limit the number of customers who can be in a store at once. Stores will now allow no more than five customers for each 1,000 square feet at a given time, roughly 20 percent of a store’s capacity.

To manage this restriction, the associates at a store will mark a queue at a single-entry door (in most cases the Grocery entrance) and direct arriving customers there, where they will be admitted one-by-one and counted. Associates and signage will remind customers of the importance of social distancing while they’re waiting to enter a store – especially before it opens in the morning.

Once a store reaches its capacity, customers will be admitted inside on a “1-out-1-in” basis.

Shopping Inside the Store

We’ll also institute one-way movement through our aisles next week in a number of our stores, using floor markers and direction from associates. We expect this to help more customers avoid coming into close contact with others as they shop.

We’ll continue to put signage inside our stores to remind customers of the need to maintain social distancing – especially in lines. And once customers check out, they will be directed to exit through a different door than they entered, which should help lessen the instances of people closely passing each other.

We always want people to feel welcome at Walmart, and we know that in ordinary times a store is a gathering place for members of a community to connect and socialize. We look forward to the time when that is again the case; however, we now want to prioritize health and safety by encouraging customers to do their shopping at a distance from others, then head home.

As the COVID-19 situation continues to develop, our leaders and operations teams will continue to listen to advice from medical experts, associates and customers, and consider how we can best serve people while helping slow the spread of the virus. The health and safety of our associates and customers is what matters the most.

Officials say that out of the 384 cases of COVID-19 in Luzerne County, 310 are located in Hazleton City.

"In a matter of two weeks, Luzerne County went from 1 case to 384 cases" Senator John Yudichak posted to social media, pleading residents to stay home. "We want every citizen to understand this is a life or death decision. Please stay home, Quedarse en casa."

Yudichak also posted that about 18% of people are following social distancing guidelines in the Hazleton area. Mayor Jeff Cusat posted a similar post: "82% of Hazleton is not social distancing".

Lehigh Valley Health Network also released a plea for the community to stay home and practice social distancing, saying that "Over 300 positive cases have been identified and this number is projected to grow by 40-60 positive cases a day." 

Here are LVHN's strong recommendations:

• Wash your hands often and don't touch your face.
• Stay home when at all possible. This includes work if you are sick.
• Practice social distancing by using technology and practice physical distancing by staying 6-10 feet away from others if you absolutely must go out.
• Do not get together with anyone outside your household even if they are family.

State Police are investigating a burglary with multiple shots fired that occured between 10:30pm and 11pm last night along Centre Street in Freeland.

According to a news release, three males forced entry into the residence of victims identified only as a 24 year old male and a 19 year old male. The three suspects fired one shot inside of the residence during the incident and fired multiple rounds outside of the residence as they fled the scene. No injuries were reported.

Residents in the area reported hearing between 4 and 6 gunshots.

The information release lists the nature of the incident as a robbery/purse snatch with force.

State Police say this was not a random act and there is no danger to the public. According to a BOLO released around midnight, the actors may have been in a Chrysler 300.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call PAP Hazleton at 5704593890.

USPS spokeswoman Karen Mazurkiewicz confirmed today that an area USPS employee has tested positive for COVID-19.

According to a release:
"The U.S. Postal Service has learned that an employee at the Freeland Post Office, 701 Main Street, Freeland, tested positive for the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).This has been confirmed by the PA Department of Health and we are following the guidance they have provided. We believe the risk is low for employees who work at the Freeland Post Office but we will keep our employees apprised as new information and guidance becomes available.

As you may know, under the Rehabilitation Act and the Privacy Act, specific employee medical information must be kept confidential and may only be shared in very limited circumstances. Therefore, the Postal Service cannot share the name of the employee who tested positive for COVID-19 or further specifics of his or her medical condition.

The safety and well-being of our employees is our highest priority. To ensure the health of our employees, we are continuing to follow recommended guidance and strategies from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."

Sources close to the Freeland Post Office say that every normal employee with the Freeland Post Office has been quarantined due to contact with the infected individual. Mail delays in Freeland can be expected.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., April 1, that there are 962 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 5,805 in 60 counties. The department also reported 11 new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 74. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Luzerne County's total positive cases are up to 282, an increase of 32 from yesterday. Carbon County's total positive cases are now up to 23 and Schuylkill total cases are now up to 47.

“The continued rise in cases combined with our increasing deaths from COVID-19 reflects the seriousness of this situation,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We need everyone to listen to the orders in place and to stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We know that these prolonged mitigation effects have been difficult for everyone, but it is essential that everyone follows these orders and does not go out unless they absolutely must.”

There are 42,427 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

• Nearly 1% are aged 0-4;
• Nearly 1% are aged 5-12;
• 1% are aged 13-18;
• Nearly 9% are aged 19-24;
• 40% are aged 25-49;
• Nearly 29% are aged 50-64; and
• 19% are aged 65 or older.
  
  

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date.
All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide indefinitely. Currently 33 counties are under stay-at-home orders.

​The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 31, that there are 756 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 4,843 in 60 counties. The department also reported 14 new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 63. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Luzerne County now has 212 total cases and 4 deaths. Yesterday, Luzerne County had 150 total cases.

Carbon County now has 17 total cases and one death. Yesterday Carbon County had 13 total cases.

Schuylkill County now has 38 total cases. Yesterday Schuylkill County had 30 total cases.

“The continued rise in cases combined with our increasing deaths from COVID-19 reflects the seriousness of this situation,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We need everyone to listen to the orders in place and to stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We know that these prolonged mitigation effects have been difficult for everyone, but it is essential that everyone follows these orders and does not go out unless they absolutely must.”

There are 37,645 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

·       Less than 1% are aged 0-4;
·       Less than 1% are aged 5-12;
·       1% are aged 13-18;
·       Nearly 10% are aged 19-24;
·       Nearly 41% are aged 25-49;
·       Nearly 29% are aged 50-64; and
·       Nearly 19% are aged 65 or older.

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date.
​
All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide indefinitely. Currently 26 counties are under stay-at-home orders.

NEW YORK — A Navy hospital ship dispatched to help with the response to the coronavirus pandemic arrived Monday in New York harbor, as New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo ominously warned residents that the worst is yet to come.

The USNS Comfort, a hospital ship with approximately 1,000 patient beds, will dock in the harbor to alleviate the strain on the city's hospitals as cases of COVID-19 climb across all five boroughs.
Health officials report more than 66,497 cases of the coronavirus in New York State, and more than 36,200 of those cases are in New York City. More than 1,200 people have died.

The ship will be used to treat less critical patients and those who have not been infected with the virus in order to free up space in hospitals, which have become overrun with COVID-19 patients. At a press conference, Mayor Bill de Blasio said watching the ship arrive was a "very emotional moment" and called it "a beacon of hope."

"Help has come. Relief is on its way," de blasio said. "There have been times in recent days when a lot of New Yorkers have felt alone. … I want to say to all New Yorkers you are not alone."

Of the 1,000 beds, 750 will become available almost immediately and patients will begin to be transferred on Tuesday. The mayor said the Comfort will allow entire hospitals to transform into intensive care units for the most critical patients. De Blasio estimated that nearly half of New Yorkers could become infected with the coronavirus and said New York City will have to triple its hospital capacity by May.

With the ship comes approximately 1,200 personnel, as well as labs, a pharmacy and operating rooms. De Blasio said the ship brings "an extraordinary complement of health care professionals" and he is "thankful that our nation has heard our plea for help."

Thomas Von Essen, the regional administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency Region II, said the ship's arrival was a "sign of what our government is like when we push our government to act."

"Everybody you know is affected by the coronavirus," Essen said. "I know how tough the people of this city are … and once again we need to be together."

Cuomo echoed this sentiment in a separate news briefing, saying "If there was ever a moment for unity, this, my friends, is the moment."

De Blasio said he has told President Donald Trump that "the toughest weeks are ahead" and New York City continues to need additional help. The mayor warned that the worst of the pandemic will not be over by Easter but that the worst could last through May.

Cuomo also warned the state has to get ready for the apex of the outbreak. Plan ahead and get ahead of the problem, he added.

"You have to prepare before the storm hits," the governor said.

Both the mayor and the governor compared the situation to "wartime" and said the response to COVID-19 must look like the response to war.

"Forget the politics, we have a national crisis," Cuomo said. "We are at war. Let's get over [politics] and again lead by example."

The mayor said the city is continuing to search for ventilators, life-saving machines for the most critical patients, as well as personal protective equipment, though he said those supplies should last until next week.

He thanked the individuals and companies that have come forward to volunteer time and donate supplies and assured the public that New York City will be there for other cities when the time comes.
​
"People are moving fast to get help to New York City, and we appreciate it and we need it," the mayor said. "When the battle is done here, New York City will stand firm for the rest of our nation. Our country was there for us and we will be there for our country."

Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf has ordered K-12 schools throughout the state to remain closed indefinitely as part of ongoing efforts to slow the spread of the coronavirus.

The announcement was made this afternoon along with the expansion of Stay at Home orders to include Carbon, Schuylkill, Dauphin, and Cumberland Counties, bringing the statewide total of counties under the order to 26.

Carbon County now has a total of 13 cases and Schuylkill County has a total of 30 cases.

This order takes effect at 8 p.m., Monday, March 30, and will continue until April 30.

This comes after a large spike in Luzerne County cases from 65 total cases in Luzerne County two days ago to a total of 150 cases today. Confirmed cases represent how many people were sick up to three weeks prior without showing symptoms.

Locally, a petition started recently on change.org calls for Amazon AVP1 in Hazleton to close for cleaning after multiple confirmed cases of coronavirus among employees. sources say hand sanitizer and protective equipment is not available and Amazon has not closed to sanitize after confirmed cases. Employees state they were not even properly made aware of confirmed cases or what area these individuals worked in.

Read more about that here:
https://www.hazletonnewsone.com/newsblog/petition-started-to-close-amazon-avp1-hazleton

Governor Tom Wolf revised the “Stay at Home” orders to include Carbon, Schuylkill, Cumberland, and Dauphin Counties. A total of 26 counties in PA are now under the order. 

Carbon County now has a total of 13 cases and Schuylkill County has a total of 30 cases.

This order takes effect at 8 p.m., Monday, March 30, and will continue until April 30.

This comes after a large spike in Luzerne County cases from 65 total cases in Luzerne County two days ago to a total of 150 cases today. Confirmed cases represent how many people were sick up to three weeks prior without showing symptoms.

For today's coronavirus updates from the Pennsylvania Health Department, click here: https://www.hazletonnewsone.com/newsblog/150-total-luzerne-county-cases-pa-total-over-4000

View the petition at https://www.change.org/p/jeff-bezos-shut-down-and-clean-amazon-facilities-that-test-positive-for-covid-19-avp1

A petition started recently on change.org calls for Amazon AVP1 in Hazleton to close for cleaning after multiple confirmed cases of coronavirus among employees. sources say hand sanitizer and protective equipment is not available and Amazon has not closed to sanitize after confirmed cases. Employees state they were not even properly made aware of confirmed cases or what area these individuals worked in.

"Here at Amazon AVP1 Hazle Township PA our site did not even formally announce its first confirmed case of Covid-19. There was only one announcement made on ONE shift." The petition starts out. "No phone call was made to notify the entire building for the first confirmed case, same goes for the second confirmed case."

The petition has grown to over 500 signatures in a short time. Supporters are mostly employees but also include customers concerned for their safety.

Carol M. writes: "Order a lot from Amazon and I feel they need to give there places a deep clean so my family and I are safe - there making money on me - it’s the least they can do"

Dominica M. says: "I have also contacted all of my representatives and the local paper. Whatever it takes to protect us. I used to really enjoy working at AVP1... been a blue badge for many years. Now going in is a daily cost v benefit calculation, with the knowledge that management does not have my back, and we may not have the means to sanitize or social distance."

Heather M. writes: "Since we have confirmed cases of covid 19 i feel the building needs to be sanitized. We need hand sanitizer and wipes available for all associates and the hand wash stations need to functioning. I do not feel safe going into the building at this point, they dont even provide the basics for us. We ve been out of these essentials for nearly 2 weeks!"

David M. says: "All warehouses in Pennsylvania industrial parks should be closed as 1000s of people are working in close proximity to each other for 10 hours or more. The associates are from all over including many affected areas. There is no possibility of social distancing in these facilities. The problem is about to become much worse in Pennsylvania."

We initially reported on Amazon's first confirmed case last week. At that time, two other employees were suspected to have coronavirus but were self-quarantined until results came back. Now sources say Amazon has announced it's second confirmed case.

With symptoms taking up to 14 days to show and tests taking a week to come back, confirmed cases reflect how many people were sick and transmitting the virus two or three weeks ago. For Amazon AVP1 with around 3,000 employees, this means there could be hundreds of employees sick right now, spreading it to others and returning home to their families.

On average, each infected person spreads the virus to two others. Amazon and other local companies in Humboldt and Valmont like Hershey which manufactures chocolate and Silgan which manufactures jar lids are causing employees to question just how life sustaining they are.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 30, that there are 693 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 4,087 in 59 counties. The department also reported 11 new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 49. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Luzerne County's total confirmed cases are now up to 150 with 3 deaths in the County. Carbon County now has a total of 13 and Schuylkill now has a total of 30 cases.

“The continued rise in cases combined with our increasing deaths from COVID-19 reflects the seriousness of this situation,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We need everyone to listen to the orders in place and to stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We know that these prolonged mitigation effects have been difficult for everyone, but it is essential that everyone follows these orders and does not go out unless they absolutely must.”
There are 33,777 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

• Less than 1% are aged 0-4;
• Less than 1% are aged 5-12;
• 1% are aged 13-18;
• 10% are aged 19-24;
• 41% are aged 25-49;
• 28% are aged 50-64; and
• 19% are aged 65 or older.
  ​

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 65 or older, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date. More data is available here.
All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide at least through April 6. Currently 22 counties are under stay-at-home orders.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 28, that there are 533 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 2,751 in 56 counties. The department also reported 12 new deaths among positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 34. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Locally, Carbon County has 3 cases, Luzerne County has 65 total cases, and Schuylkill has 16 total cases.
​
“Our notable increase in cases over the past week indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

There are 25,254 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

·       Less than 1% are aged 0-4;
·       Less than 1% are aged 5-12;
·       1% are aged 13-18;
·       Nearly 11% are aged 19-24;
·       39% are aged 25-49;
·       Nearly 28% are aged 50-64; and
·       19% are aged 65 or older.
​
Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 25-49, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date. More data is available here.
All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide at least through April 6. Currently 19 counties are under stay-at-home orders.

Luzerne and Lackawanna Counties have been added to Governor Tom Wolf’s ever growing stay at home order. The order goes into effect at 8pm tonight.
​

Individuals may leave their residence only to perform any of the following allowable individual activities and allowable essential travel:

• Tasks essential to maintain health and safety, or the health and safety of their family or household members (including pets), such as obtaining medicine or medical supplies, visiting a health care professional, or obtaining supplies they need to work from home
• Getting necessary services or supplies for themselves, for their family or household members, or as part of volunteer efforts, or to deliver those services or supplies to others to maintain the safety, sanitation, and essential operation of residences
• Engaging in outdoor activity, such as walking, hiking or running if they maintain social distancing
• To perform work providing essential products and services at a life-sustaining business
• To care for a family member or pet in another household
• Any travel related to the provision of or access to the above-mentioned individual activities or life-sustaining business activities
• Travel to care for elderly, minors, dependents, persons with disabilities, or other vulnerable persons
• Travel to or from educational institutions for purposes of receiving materials for distance learning, for receiving meals, and any other related services
• Travel to return to a place of residence from an outside jurisdiction
• Travel required by law enforcement or court order.
• Travel required for non-residents to return to their place of residence outside the commonwealth

The following operations are exempt:

• Life-sustaining business activities
• Health care or medical services providers
• Access to life-sustaining services for low-income residents, including food banks
• Access to child care services for employees of life-sustaining businesses that remain open as follows: child care facilities operating under the Department of Human Services, Office of Child Development and Early Learning waiver process; group and family child care operating in a residence; and part-day school age programs operating under an exemption from the March 19, 2020 business closure Orders.
• News media
• Law enforcement
• The federal government
• Religious institutions

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 27, that there are 531 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 2,218 in 50 counties.  All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Cases by County:
Adams 8
Allegheny 158
Armstrong 1
Beaver 14
Berks 65
Blair 1
Bradford 2
Bucks 124
Butler 26
Cambria 1
Carbon 2
Centre 11
Chester 107
Clearfield 2
Columbia 3
Crawford 1
Cumberland 16
Dauphin 18
Delaware 185
Erie 7
Fayette 9
Franklin 5
Greene 4
Indiana 2
Juniata 1
Lackawanna 35
Lancaster 33
Lawrence 4
Lebanon 12
Lehigh 93
Luzerne 55
Lycoming 2
Mercer 4
Monroe 98
Montgomery 374
Montour 4
Northampton 79
Northumberland 1
Philadelphia 530
Pike 23
Potter 1
Schuylkill 13
Somerset 2
Susquehanna 1
Union 1
Warren 1
Washington 14
Wayne 6
Westmoreland 30
York 29

“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

There are 21,016 patients who have tested negative to date. Of the patients who have tested positive to date the age breakdown is as follows:

·       Less than 1% are aged 0-4;
·       Less than 1% are aged 5-12;
·       Nearly 2% are aged 13-18;
·       11% are aged 19-24;
·       40% are aged 25-49;
·       Nearly 28% are aged 50-64; and
·       18% are aged 65 or older.

Most of the patients hospitalized are aged 25-49, and most of the deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older. There have been no pediatric deaths to date. 
​

According to multiple sources, a manager of the Amazon warehouse in Humboldt announced at 9pm this evening that an employee has been confirmed to have the coronavirus. Two others are awaiting test results.

According to sources, the associates last worked Thursday the 19th. HR will inform any associates who may have come in contact with the individual who has been confirmed to have the coronavirus.

Associates are able to stay home but will not be paid according to sources.

A social media post in the AVP1 Hazleton Facebook group confirmed the reports. "On Thursday evening at 9:00pm Senior Leadership along with HR announced a confirmed case of a worker at AVP1. The last date they worked was March 19th. Due to HIPAA regulations, they cannot release the names. We were told they worked in the building, could not specify which area/department" The post said.

"Senior Leadership has decided to keep the building open for normal operations. If this plan changes, a call all will be made."

Employee sources say that work areas have not been sanitized.

Hazleton News 1 does not release information about it's sources for any reason.
We welcome anonymous information by messaging us on Facebook.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 26, that there are 560 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 1,687 in 48 counties. The department also reported five new deaths, bringing the statewide death total to 16. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.

Cases by County:
​
Adams 7
Allegheny 133 - 2 Deaths
Armstrong 1
Beaver 13
Berks 36
Blair 1
Bradford 2
Bucks 107
Butler 19 1 Death
Cambria 1
Carbon 2
Centre 9
Chester 84
Clearfield 2
Columbia 3
Crawford 1
Cumberland 15
Dauphin 13
Delaware 156 - 1 Death
Erie 4
Fayette 8
Franklin 5
Greene 3
Indiana 1
Juniata 1
Lackawanna 28 - 2 Deaths
Lancaster 21
Lawrence 1
Lebanon 4
Lehigh 63 - 1 Death
Luzerne 36 - 1 Death
Lycoming 1
Mercer 3
Monroe 67 - 2 Deaths
Montgomery 282 - 2 Deaths
Montour 4
Northampton 56 - 3 Deaths
Philadelphia 402 - 1 Death
Pike 15
Potter 1
Schuylkill 9
Somerset 2
Susquehanna 1
Warren 1
Washington 12
Wayne 6
Westmoreland 24
York  21
​
“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.”

Statewide, there are 1,687 cases of COVID-19 reported from commercial, hospital and state labs. There are 16,441 patients who have tested negative, and 16 total deaths. With commercial labs being the primary testing option for most Pennsylvanians, data is not available on the total number of tests pending.

Joe Fasula, co-owner of Gerrity's Supermarkets took to social media today to explain a challenging situation the store has dealt with at their Hanover Township location.

According to Fasula's post, Fasula received a call today from the Hanover Township Gerrity's manager who informed Fasula that a woman purposely coughed on the fresh produce, some bakery items, the meat case, and grocery items.

"While there is little doubt this woman was doing it as a very twisted prank, we will not take any chances with the health and well-being of our customers." Fasula said in the post. "We had no choice but to throw out all product she came in contact with. Working closely with the Hanover Township health inspector, we identified every area that she was in, we disposed of the product and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected everything."

​Although a total loss has not been determined, the estimated value of product lost is well over $35,000 according to Fasula. "We are checking to see if our insurance company will cover it, but even if they do, our rates will surely go up next year. I am also absolutely sick to my stomach about the loss of food. While it is always a shame when food is wasted, in these times when so many people are worried about the security of our food supply, it is even more disturbing."

Fasula says employees did their best to get the woman out of the store as fast as possible and a case with the police has been escalated to the District Attorney's Office. The woman is not believed to be infected with the coronavirus.

"I would like to thank every member of our organization who pitched in today to help, especially those of you who came in on your day off and those who stayed late." Fasula added. "I would also like to thank the people who will be going in early tomorrow to get the departments restocked. One thing is for sure, we will have the cleanest display and freshest produce anywhere in northeast PA."

The Luzerne County Coroner's Office has confirmed it's first COVID-19 related death.

The first victim in Luzerne County is identified as a 70 year old Luzerne County resident according to a press release. He passed away in a local hospital yesterday. He had recently travelled outside the Continental US and had preexisting conditions.

A virtual press conference will be held today at 3pm by the Luzerne County Manager, focusing on the first coronavirus related death as well as other County related issues.

​The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 25, that there are 276 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 1,127 in 44 counties. The department also reported four new deaths, bringing the statewide death total to 11. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital. 

Cases By County:

​Adams 6​
Allegheny 88
​Armstrong 1​​
Beaver 7
​Berks 20
​Bradford ​1​
Bucks 86
​Butler 12
​Cambria 1​​
​Carbon ​1​
​Centre 8
Chester 54
​Clearfield​ 2​
​Columbia 1
Cumberland 13
​Dauphin 10
Delaware 101
​Erie 4
​Fayette 4
​Franklin 5
​Greene 2
​Juniata 1​​
​Lackawanna 18
​Lancaster 12
​Lawrence 1
​Lebanon 3
Lehigh 38
Luzerne 27
​Lycoming 1
​Mercer 2
Monroe 51
Montgomery 172
​Montour 4
Northampton 44
Philadelphia 257
Pike 9
​Potter 1
​Schuylkill 6
​Somerset 2
​Warren 1
Washington 10
Wayne 4
​Westmoreland 16
​York 20

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 25, that there are 276 additional positive cases of COVID-19, bringing the statewide total to 1,127 in 44 counties. The department also reported four new deaths, bringing the statewide death total to 11. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital. 

Cases By County:

​Adams 6​
Allegheny 88
​Armstrong 1​​
Beaver 7
​Berks 20
​Bradford ​1​
Bucks 86
​Butler 12
​Cambria 1​​
​Carbon ​1​
​Centre 8
Chester 54
​Clearfield​ 2​
​Columbia 1
Cumberland 13
​Dauphin 10
Delaware 101
​Erie 4
​Fayette 4
​Franklin 5
​Greene 2
​Juniata 1​​
​Lackawanna 18
​Lancaster 12
​Lawrence 1
​Lebanon 3
Lehigh 38
Luzerne 27
​Lycoming 1
​Mercer 2
Monroe 51
Montgomery 172
​Montour 4
Northampton 44
Philadelphia 257
Pike 9
​Potter 1
​Schuylkill 6
​Somerset 2
​Warren 1
Washington 10
Wayne 4
​Westmoreland 16
​York 20

“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.” 

Statewide, there are 1,127 cases of COVID-19 reported from commercial, hospital and state labs. There are 11,193 patients who have tested negative, and 11 total deaths. With commercial labs being the primary testing option for most Pennsylvanians, data is not available on the total number of tests pending. 
​
All non-life-sustaining businesses are ordered to be closed and schools are closed statewide at least through April 6.  

Senate leaders and the Trump administration reached agreement early this morning on a $2 trillion stimulus package to rescue the economy, which now needs to pass through both chambers of Congress.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we are done. We have a deal,” White House legislative affairs director Eric Ueland told reporters around 1 a.m.

The agreement comes after five days of intense negotiations that began Friday morning.

The unprecedented legislation is intended to flood the economy with capital by direct payments of $1,200 to most American adults and $500 to most children, creating a $367 billion loan program for small businesses, and setting up a $500 billion fund for industries, cities and states.
Other provisions include a boost to unemployment insurance, $150 billion for state and local stimulus funds and $130 billion for hospitals, among numerous other provisions.
“At last we have a deal. ... the Senate has reached a bipartisan agreement," McConnell declared during a speech on the Senate floor after 1:30 a.m.
​
Congress is under pressure to pass the deal quickly to assist the market and the American public affected by the coronavirus. The United States has more than 55,000 confirmed cases as of Tuesday night.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health today confirmed as of 12:00 a.m., March 24, that there are 207 additional positive cases of COVID-19, and four new deaths, bringing the statewide total to 851 in 40 counties. All people are either in isolation at home or being treated at the hospital.  

For the sixth day in a row, Pennsylvania has beaten it's previous record of new cases with Carbon County announcing it's first case and Luzerne County's cases tripling from 7 to 21 since Sunday. The state now has a total of 7 deaths.

“Our notable increase in cases over the past few days indicate we need everyone to take COVID-19 seriously,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Pennsylvanians have a very important job right now: stay calm, stay home and stay safe. We have seen case counts continue to increase and the best way to prevent the spread of COVID-19 is to stay home.” 

Statewide, there are 851 cases of COVID-19 reported from commercial, hospital and state labs. There are 8,643 patients who have tested negative, and seven total deaths. With commercial labs being the primary testing option for most Pennsylvanians, data is not available on the total number of tests pending. 

​Cases by County:

​Adams 6
Allegheny 58
​Armstrong 1​​
Beaver 3
​Berks 16
​Bradford ​1​
Bucks 65
​Butler 6
​Cambria 1​​
​Carbon ​1​
​Centre 7
Chester 40
​Clearfield​ 1​
​Columbia 1
Cumberland 13
​Dauphin 4
Delaware 84
​Erie 4
​Fayette 2
​Franklin 3
​Juniata 1​​
​Lackawanna 15
​Lancaster 10
​Lebanon 3
Lehigh 27
Luzerne 21
​Mercer ​2
Monroe 45
Montgomery 144
​Montour 3
Northampton 33
Philadelphia 177
Pike 4
​Potter 1
​Schuylkill 5
​Somerset​ 1 ​
Washington 9
Wayne 4
​Westmoreland 11
​York 18

Governor Wolf announced today a two week extension of PA school closures along with a Stay at Home order for 6 counties.

"Today I’m issuing a Stay at Home order for Allegheny, Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Monroe, & Montgomery counties." Wolf said. "Starting at 8pm, residents must stay home unless someone’s life depends on leaving."

"Our roads will stay open, and so will our grocery stores and pharmacies. My office will be issuing additional guidance on allowable activities, as well as information for people who have no permanent home."

"I'm also extending school closures and other statewide COVID19 mitigation efforts for ALL counties for 2 more weeks. These measures may seem extreme. However, we are in desperate times and need to make drastic changes in order to save lives."

​Closures could be extended beyond April 6th if necessary to save lives and stop the spread of the coronavirus according to a news release from the state Department of Education.

Via Press release:

​As the Mayor of the City of Hazleton, the health and safety of our residents continues to be my 
#1 priority. Therefore, I'd like to address some of the issues that seem to be stirring the social 
media frenzy. 

To the Businesses that are the backbone of our City:
Governor Wolf has ordered the closure of all non-essential businesses. 
The City can only ask businesses to voluntarily close or limit operations to 
slow or prevent the spread of the virus, but enforcement is within the purview of the State and 
began today at 8 a.m. 

To the Citizens and Business Operators within the City: 
As you are aware, as of this writing there have been two (2) positive tests for Covid-19 within our city limits. The information on these individuals is protected by HIPPA. Please refrain from 
making assumptions on social media regarding people you suspect may have tested positive, as 
this unnecessarily can damage someone's reputation and possibly lead to legal action. As more 
people do test positive, I ask them to please follow their physicians' orders, self-quarantine, and 
avoid unnecessary contact with other persons. 

While we also cannot control access to our city from non-residents, I have recommended local limousines and taxicab companies not to provide shuttle services to New York and New Jersey during this time. Several companies have already voluntarily suspended service to these states. 

Although the parks and playgrounds are not closed, I have decided to restrict access to public during this pandemic. The CDC has recommended no public gatherings of more than ten (10) 
people and social distancing of at least six (6) feet. Therefore, I am asking the public to 
voluntarily refrain from participating in team or sports activities. 

Access to city hall remains limited. The public is asked to call 911 for all police matters. 
Parking and Code Enforcement are accessible for related matters and have a window to protect citizens and our employees. 

Please remember that construction is restricted under the Governor's Order, so only emergency 
repair permits will be issued during this time. Code Enforcement is also limited to inspecting 
life-threatening matters. 

Instead of coming to city hall, people can call the following numbers: 
Emergency: 911 
Police: (570) 459-4940 
Code: (570) 459-4925 
Parking Enforcement: (570) 459-4953 
Mayor: (570) 459-4910 

I will continue working tirelessly with my team to keep you informed on every measure we are 
taking to protect the citizens, and employees, while providing the highest level of emergency 
services. Therefore, I have directed the police to work from their patrol vehicles instead of the 
police station during the Covid-19 pandemic, in an effort to provide public presence, awareness, 
and accessibility to the citizens of the city. 

Again, we are all in this together and I appreciate your support and cooperation as we continue to move forward. 

Via Luzerne County press release:

Pa- Luzerne County 9-1-1 would like to remind residents that during this extremely difficult time and to ensure everyone has access to critical emergency services, dial 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies only. 

Please do not dial 9-1-1 for non-emergencies or to simply ask about the Coronavirus. 9-1-1 is to be used for EMERGENCIES only. For more information regarding the Coronavirus please visit the Pennsylvania Department of Health website at: health.pa.gov or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (1-877-724-3258). 

To report a noncompliant business due to Governor Wolf's closure of non-life sustaining businesses, depending on the jurisdiction and law enforcement coverage, individuals should contact the applicable local law enforcement agency's 10 digit non-emergency number or the nearest PA State Police station. 

​As always, if you are experiencing an immediate medical or non-medical emergency, dial 9-1-1 ​

For the fourth day in a row, Pennsylvania has broken it's own record for new coronavirus cases in the state.

On Thursday, Pennsylvania had 52 new cases, on Friday there were 83 new cases, on Saturday the state announced 103 new cases, and yesterday 108 new cases were confirmed. Today the Pennsylvania Health Department shows 165 new cases of coronavirus in the state.

Three of those new cases are in Luzerne County and two are in Schuylkill County. The state's total number of deaths remain at two, one in Northampton County and one in Allegheny County. This brings the total for Luzerne County to 10 and the total for Schuylkill to 3.

According to the department of health, the individuals are in isolation at home or a hospital.

This brings the state's total cases to 644. 6,595 tests have come back negative in Pennsylvania.

Cases by County:

​Adams 6
Allegheny 48
Beaver 3
​Berks 14
Bucks 43
​Butler 5
​Cambria 1​
​Centre 3​
Chester 40
​Columbia 1
Cumberland 12
​Dauphin 1​
Delaware 54
​Erie 3
​Fayette 1
​Franklin 1
​Lackawanna 7
​Lancaster 5
​Lebanon 3
Lehigh 25
Luzerne 10
​Mercer 1
Monroe 43
Montgomery 129
​Montour 1
Northampton 23
Philadelphia 128
Pike 3
​Potter 1
​Schuylkill 3
Washington 7
Wayne 3
​Westmoreland 6
​York 10