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DEP to begin 2020 black fly control work

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Their view: US isn’t protecting enough blue-collar workers

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — State health officials say more than 1,500 deaths in Pennsylvania are now associated with the coronavirus pandemic.The state health department on Sunday also reported an additional 1,116 positive cases to bring the statewide total above 41,000 in all 67 counties. The number of infections is thought to be far higher because many people have not been tested, and studies suggest people can be infected with the virus without feeling sick.Most hospitalizations and deaths have occurred in patients 65 or older, officials said.For most people, the virus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up in a couple of weeks. Older adults and people with existing health problems are at higher risk of more severe illness, including pneumonia, or death.BUSINESS FUNDING:The state says 160 companies in 43 Pennsylvania are getting help from a second round of state loan funding to help firms during the coronavirus pandemic.The state Department of Community and Economic Development says the companies have received a total of $13.5 million in loans as part of the COVID19 Working Capital Access Program.More than $23 million total has been awarded so far to businesses such as restaurants, wellness centers, wineries and breweries, consulting firms, salons and spas, officials said.Officials said the loans will help businesses quickly access capital to address critical needs while they follow shutdown and closure orders from the state.

State: Deaths associated with coronavirus now stand at 1,550