COVID-19 cases soar in Allegheny County despite increased vaccination efforts

PITTSBURGH — Allegheny County saw nearly 600 new COVID-19 cases Friday and 10 additional deaths as vaccination efforts ramp up across the area.

In the last 24 hours, the county reported 593 new coronavirus cases, which includes 433 confirmed cases and 160 probable ones. The new cases involve people age seven months to 96 years old.

The increases come as several COVID-19 vaccination clinics are being held Friday. Officials with Allegheny Health Network said there are thousands of vaccines still available for two clinics, and no appointment is needed for the one on Friday.

>>RELATED STORY: No appointment needed: AHN accepting walk-ins at COVID-19 vaccination clinic

In addition to everyone eligible in phases 1A and 1B, the state has granted AHN permission to open up eligibility to everyone in Phase 1C.

Of the 10 additional deaths, one person was in their 30s. Three of the deaths were associated with long-term care facilities.

Since March 2020, there have been 89,545 cases of COVID-19 in Allegheny County, 6,162 hospitalizations and 1,807 deaths.

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AHN opens weekend COVID-19 vaccination clinics to Phase 1C; appointments still available