Trending
With the opening of area schools for in-person instruction, an increase in cases of COVID in children are being reported.
The majority of schools returned to class earlier this week and as of Friday several had reported positive cases of COVID. Information was not available on COVID dashboards for all districts. The dashboards are a snapshot of the number of active cases among students and staff as well as in some cases the number tested and those who have recovered.
As of Friday, East Lycoming School, South Williamsport Area, Loyalsock Township and Williamsport Area School districts had reported cases among students, with some cases both in the lower and upper grades.
"There has been a slight increase in the number of pediatric patients at UPMC hospitals due to COVID-19," said Amber Depew, director, public relations in UPMC's North Central Pa. Region.
"As COVID-19 continues to evolve, UPMC encourages families and the public to vaccinate themselves and their children who are eligible as soon as possible. The best ways to minimize the spread of COVID-19 are by taking the vaccine, masking and social distancing," Depew added.
She noted that, within the UPMC system across the country, there are 349 inpatients who are positive for COVID-19, with 18 in the northcentral part of the state.
"Because of our extensive planning and preparation, UPMC facilities are safe, and staff are well-equipped and know how to properly care for patients with COVID-19," Depew said.
Earlier in the week, the acting secretary of the state's Department of Health had issued a mandate requiring all students, staff and visitors to wear masks while in schools and daycares, regardless of vaccination status.
The mandate takes effect Tuesday. Students will not be required to be masked outdoors, when eating or drinking or participating in physical activities. Students do not have to wear a mask when participating in sports practice activities or events, whether indoors or outdoors.