Erie County Update: May 22, 2020

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Erie County Executive Kathy Dahlkemper began her press conference today by offering condolences to the family and loved ones of Barry Grossman, who passed away yesterday. Prior to Dahlkemper, Grossman held the office of Erie County Executive for one term beginning in 2010. "Barry truly cared about this community," Dahlkemper shared. "He was an entrepreneur – owning and operating several businesses throughout his career in Erie County – as well as a respected professor, historian, lecturer, and attorney." She also praised his efforts to bring a community college to the county. 

Following her condolences, she reported that there were eight new positive cases of COVID-19 in the county. Of the 29 cases reported yesterday and today, two are under the age of five, four are teenagers, five are in their 20s, five are in their 30s, nine are in their 40s, two are in their 50s, one is in their 60s, and one is in their 70s. 12 of these cases are in Zone one (the City of Erie), six are in Zone two (Millcreek), eight are in Zone three (North East, Harborcreek), and three are in Zone four (Corry, Union City). 

This brings the county to a total of 191 cumulative positives, with 3,658 negatives (100 more than the previous day), and 121 recovered cases (for a total of 62 current active cases). So far, there have been three deaths of Erie County residents reported due to COVID-19, with a fourth still being reported by the state.

Statewide, there were 866 additional positive cases (114 less than the day prior), for a total of 66,258 total cases. So far, there have been 4,984 deaths statewide, with 115 occurring yesterday. 312,743 patients who have tested negative to date, with 9,229 tests recorded yesterday.

There were no changes in some of our nearby counties. Crawford County stands at 21 positive cases (no change since last Monday), with McKean County at 11 cases (no change since May 18), with one death. Venango County remains at eight positive cases (no change since May 18), with Warren County at three cases.

Chautauqua County has 60 cases (up three) and four deaths. Ashtabula County has 263 cases (up 13) and 23 deaths. 

Dahlkemper warned against Memorial Day gatherings, with strict social distancing guidelines to be followed in case they do happen in-person.

Jennifer Eberlein, community program manager for Corry's Blue Zone project and registered nurse, joined Dahlkemper today remotely.