Thread by @GovernorTomWolf

I’m at @PEMAHQ with @PAHealthDept to announce that we now have 22 known coronavirus cases and 180 people under investigation in Pennsylvania.

We also are announcing new guidance for all Pennsylvanians and specific guidance for individuals in Montgomery County. #COVID19

Because Montgomery County has had a rapid growth in its number of #COVID19 cases, workers and residents will have special provisions starting Friday, March 13.

I am ordering the closure of all schools, day cares, community centers, gyms, and entertainment venues.

This includes Montgomery County YMCAs, theaters, sporting events, concerts, and nonessential retail facilities.

It includes schools of all types, such as pre-K, higher education and private schools. #COVID19

Pennsylvanians' health and public safety is my No. 1 concern. I’m ordering critical infrastructure in Montgomery Co. to stay open.

This includes: health care facilities, government, grocery stores, gas stations, utility, public safety and correctional facilities + mass transit.

Across Pennsylvania, no mass gatherings — especially those with more than 250 attendees—should be held, including conferences and rallies.

I am discouraging people from going to recreational activities in public places. #COVID19

I am asking religious leaders to use their discretion to prevent the spread of illness through their congregations and communities. #COVID19

Last week, I declared an emergency disaster declaration to free up funding and resources. governor.pa.gov/newsroom/gov-w…

Anyone exposed is being quarantined and monitored for symptoms.

We are working to make sure our health systems, first responders and county and municipal health departments have the resources they need to respond. #COVID19

I’m taking action to protect state workers. #COVID19

𝗘𝗳𝗳𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗶𝗺𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗹𝘆:
▪️ No non-essential, out-of-state and international travel
▪️ All mass work meetings have been canceled or postponed

Earlier this week, I announced that health insurance providers will cover costs associated with testing for and treatment of coronavirus.

Please don’t let worries about cost keep you from getting tested. #COVID19

The cost of testing is covered for patients who have Medicaid, Medical Assistance, or CHIP. #COVID19

There’s no need to panic, but we all can and should prepare at this time.

The same family emergency plans and kits that we use to prepare for flu or norovirus, and even snowstorms and floods, are important now. #COVID19

Protect yourself and your family by knowing the symptoms of #COVID19 and taking everyday precautions, such as:
🧼 Washing hands with soapy water for 20 seconds
🧻 Cleaning surfaces frequently
🙅‍♀‍ Avoiding touching face
🤧 Covering coughs + sneezes
🏡 Staying home when sick

We encourage Pennsylvanians to call the @PAHeathDept at 1-877-724-3258 if:
🤝 You have been in contact with a known #COVID19 exposure
✈️ You have recent travel history to Italy, China, Iran, or South Korea

I want to close this thread by thanking everyone who is working to respond to this pandemic — with a special thank you to @PAHealthDept and @SecretaryLevine.

We are safer because of your tireless effort to protect us.

All the latest updates ⤵️
on.pa.gov/coronavirus