On Friday, April 17, Atlantic County public health officials confirmed the deaths of five more residents from complications related to COVID-19 bring to 18 the total number of fatalities from the unique coronavirus.
They include a 76-year-old woman and a 78-year-old man from Atlantic City, a 60-year-old man and 88-year-old woman from Egg Harbor Township, and a 72-year-old man from Hamilton Township. All five had pre-existing health conditions that put them at greater risk for complications according to county Public Information Officer Linda Gilmore.
She added county also reported 20 additional residents have tested positive, five of whom are located in Galloway Township, three reside in Egg Harbor Township, and two each are from Atlantic City and Hammonton. Absecon, Brigantine, Buena, Egg Harbor City, Linwood, Margate, Northfield and Ventnor each have one new positive resident.
With April 16’s additions, there are now 370 residents who have tested positive throughout the county and 18 who have died. Five more residents have been cleared, bringing the total number of recovered to 71 countywide.
Atlantic County is accepting appointments for two additional drive-thru test dates from 10 am to 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 21 and Thursday, April 23, behind the Hamilton Mall in Mays Landing. Residents must be symptomatic for respiratory illness, provide a doctor’s prescription, proof of residency and confirmation of appointment.
Appointments can be made on the county website at www.aclink.org. Those who are unable to keep their appointment are asked to cancel so someone else can fill their sport.
Atlantic County held its first COVID-19 drive-thru testing on April 9 for symptomatic first responders and healthcare workers. Testing for the general public began on Tuesday, April 14 and was held again yesterday, April 16.
The county has obtained 600 test kits and plans to secure more as needed.