Persichilli addresses rise of coronavirus cases in NJ

At a press conference on Monday, Department of Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli spoke about the recent increase in coronavirus disease (COVID-19) cases in New Jersey.

“Until Sept. 15, our cases were in the high 300s each day,” she said. “Then they climbed to (500) to 600 daily. Now daily reports of cases have doubled since last month and we are now up as high as 1,000 a day.”

Yesterday, the state reported 1,036 new cases of COVID-19, while 1,282 and 1,192 new cases were reported on Sunday and Monday respectively, according to the Department of Health. 

Persichilli said the trend in New Jersey is similar to other states nationwide.

Other than increases in Ocean County and at colleges in the state, Persichilli said the majority of new cases are the result of community spread rather than a specific step in the state’s reopening process.

Since the start of the outbreak in March until October, approximately 16 percent of the 118 outbreaks are associated with parties and gatherings, followed by daycare settings and farms at approximately 13 percent each. She said parties and gatherings account for the highest number of outbreaks when excluding schools, congregate living and healthcare.

In the period between early September to Oct. 5, approximately 17 percent of the 36 outbreaks are associated with parties and gatherings.

“I know we are all tired of COVID-19 and all the precautions necessary to prevent the spread of disease and the restrictions we have endured. It is understandable that residents want life to go back to normal,” she said. “But as we approach a holiday season, now is the time to double down on social distancing, wearing face coverings and good hand hygiene.”

Colder weather will also likely result in more indoor gatherings, which Persichilli said increases the risk of transmitting the virus. She said the course of the next few months is determined by the precautions residents are taking now.  

“Our behavior will be critical in shaping how our holidays will be celebrated,” she said. “Now is not the time to let your guard down. The virus has not stopped circulating.”