PA Coronavirus Data: Cases Top 140K, Nearly 8K Deaths

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania's total coronavirus case count exceeded 140,000 Tuesday, after 496 additional positive cases of COVID-19 were reported. The statewide total now stands at 140,359. Of those infected, 81 percent have recovered, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Health.

Since the pandemic began, 7,791 deaths in Pennsylvania are attributed to COVID-19. Eleven new deaths were reported Tuesday.

Secretary of Health Rachel Levine, speaking during a Tuesday afternoon news conference, stressed the importance of flu shots this year. She noted the flu and coronavirus share many of the same symptoms, including fever, cough, and chills.

Levine also discussed the state's move to increase indoor dining occupancy from 25 percent to 50 percent as of Sept. 21. All restaurants seeking to increase capacity must participate in a self-certification process. Self-certifications will be enforced starting Oct.5.

She said the two week delay in permitting the increased capacity is to allow for establishments to prepare.

The self-certification documents will include a statement that the owner has reviewed and agrees to follow the requirements in the state's restaurant industry guidance. Additionally, restaurants must state the business' maximum indoor occupancy number based on the fire code, as well as a statement that the owner understands that the certification is subject to penalties if falsified.