Mount Nittany Medical Center’s admitted coronavirus inpatients hit a record high this week, according to a spokesperson.

The hospital is currently treating 17 coronavirus-positive inpatients aged between 31 and 92 years old. Last week, Mount Nittany hospitalized 15 patients, a record at the time.

Since October 1, Mount Nittany has admitted 47 coronavirus-positive inpatients, averaging 11 per day. For comparison, the hospital admitted 16 virus-positive patients in September and averaged two per day.

Dr. Nirmal Joshi, the hospital’s chief medical officer, said Mount Nittany’s quick rise in admitted patients is “concerning.”

“Increased cases and hospitalizations – especially among vulnerable elderly populations – remains cause for concern,” Joshi said. “It is also a reminder to be even more vigilant and thoughtful in consistently practicing preventive measures, including masking, social distancing and frequent hand washing.”

On October 9, Mount Nittany activated its new surge capacity plan that rescheduled some surgeries that would require overnight admission.

“In addition to using our surge capacity plan, we are also constantly adapting to meet the needs of both COVID-19 positive patients as well as other patients needing care, including those with general medical needs and those scheduled for surgical procedures,” Joshi said.

Mount Nittany developed a 21-bed specialized unit for treating coronavirus patients in the spring, which can expand to meet hospital needs if necessary.

In total, the hospital can provide care for 40 patients who need ventilators and is licensed for 260 hospital beds.

As of Thursday, October 30, Centre County has reported 4,184 coronavirus cases since March.

About the Author

Matt DiSanto

Matt proudly served as Onward State’s managing editor for two years until graduating from Penn State in May 2022. Now, he’s off in the real world doing real things. Send him an email (mattdisanto86@gmail.com) or follow him on Twitter (@mattdisanto_) to stay in touch.

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