iradiophilly | News - Penn Medicine Employees Test Positive; Trump Signs Second Aid Bill; Phillies $1 Million Workers Fund

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Penn Medicine Employees Test Positive; Trump Signs Second Aid Bill; Phillies $1 Million Workers Fund

by: iradioal - Philadelphia, PA
started: 03/18/20 9:58 pm | updated: 03/18/20 9:58 pm

Penn Medicine has confirmed that several employees within their health system across the region have tested positive for coronavirus COVID-19. They did not state an exact number nor say where and what these employees' jobs entail. They say that they identified and contacted any patients and staff that these employees came in contact with.

This is a statement released by Penn Medicine, "Over the past day, Penn Medicine became aware of several healthcare providers who practice across our health system who have tested positive for COVID-19. As the prevalence of the virus continues in our region, all hospitals will be forced to deal with these issues. We are uniquely well-prepared to quickly take the steps necessary to ensure the safety and protection of patients and staff during this fast-moving and challenging time. We have worked to swiftly identify and contact both patients and staff who may have been exposed to these individuals while they were working, to provide instructions for precautionary measures and self-monitoring. These providers are in quarantine at home and are adhering to all precautions recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)."

At a press conference Wednesday afternoon, 3/18, Philadelphia city officials expressed disappointment at non-essential businesses that were not heeding the orders to close amid the coronavirus COVID19 outbreak. In particular, officials called out Philadelphia Mills (formerly Franklin Mills) shopping mall in Northeast Philadelphia that was still operating despite citywide orders to close such establishments starting Monday, 3/16, at 5 p.m. "Unfortunately there are some who have continued to operate," said city managing director Brian Abernathy. "Businesses like the Philadelphia Mills Mall. I am disappointed by their inability and irresponsibility and as such we have sent the police and L&I to shut down that business. If you can't be responsible we will be responsible for you." The mall did close shortly after the news conference.

President Donald Trump signed a bi-partisan, multi-billion dollar relief bill on Wednesday night, 3/18, after it was approved in the Senate earlier in the day. It passed in the House last Saturday, 3/14, and technical changes were approved on Monday, 3/16. The bill provides for free coronavirus COVID-19 testing for all and two-weeks paid sick leave for full-time workers. It also provides $1 billion in food aid to the needy and $1 billion in unemployment funds to states. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act is the second aid package passed and signed into law. It was negotiated by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.). A third aid package is being worked on now that would provide direct assistance to workers in the form of checks in the mail.

Sports
The Philadelphia Phillies have established a $1 million fund to help team workers impacted by the postponement of the start of the MLB season. "During this period of uncertainty, the Phillies want to provide reassurance to our staff by making financial assistance available to those who have been impacted by the delay of the start of the 2020 regular season," team owner John Middleton said. "Their contributions are a vital part of our fans' experience at Citizens Bank Park, and we want them to have peace of mind as we navigate through this unprecedented time."

The Jacksonville Jaguars have reportedly traded QB Nick Foles to the Chicago Bears for a compensatory fourth-round pick. Foles signed a four-year $88 million contract with Jacksonville last summer, but was knocked out on the first game with a broken collar bone. He did not regain his starter role. Foles will compete with Mitchell Trubisky for the starter position in Chicago.