Number of Delaware coronavirus cases rises to 673

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Debut of rapid test shows 10 mid to high-risk workers testing negative

Delaware saw another sharp increase in coronavirus cases as more test results were received.

The total number of people testing positive rose to 673, compared to 593 on Saturday.

The closely watched figure of hospitalizations rose modestly to 101 rapidly and the number of deaths remained at 14 for the third day.

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A surge in hospitalizations would put pressure on facilities in the state, especially when it comes to intensive care units.

Other stats:

  • Age range: 1 to 97 
  • Currently hospitalized: 101; Critically ill: 25 
  • 6,321 negative cases* 

*Data on negative  cases  are preliminary, based on negative results reported to DPH by state and commercial laboratories performing analysis. 

On Sunday, the  Delaware Division of Public Health quickly put to work the first of 5,000 rapid test kits that were delivered on Saturday.

After the kits were validated by the state, DPH ran a trial drive-through testing site today for 10 first responders and health care providers with medium to high risk exposures.

These individuals, who are under quarantine but do not have symptoms, came in contact with confirmed cases in the course of their duties.

The test detects antibody levels for SARS-CoV-2 with a drop of blood (from a finger stick), whereas the PCR test detects viral genetic material (obtained with a nasal swab).

This test does not replace the PCR tests but can complement them.

 Test results are available in five minutes  for positive test results and 15 minutes for negative test results.

The test results for all 10 of the first responders were negative, allowing them to return to work.

Delaware is one of the first states in the nation to perform this type of testing for first responders and health care providers.

The goal is to expand rapid testing access in the future, under the proper applications, as tests become more readily available.

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