In a state which still desperately lacks federal resources to combat the virus, especially at the epicenter, Governor Phil Murphy reported 1,982 new positive COVID-19 tests in New Jersey, bringing the statewide total to 8,825; one-thirds positive and two-thirds negative among tested symptomatic cases.

In addition, New Jersey lost 27 people in the 24 hours, the highest number of deaths in a 24-hour period to date, Murphy said today at his daily briefing, where he warned again of a crisis that will go on, a marathon, not a sprint, and called on New Jerseyans to be World War II America-courageous.

Since the beginning of the scourge, the state has suffered 108 deaths to COVID-19.

“We have expected this would take a heavy toll on our state,” Murphy said in his Friday afternoon briefing.

“We continue to accept donations of personal protective equipment,” the governor reminded people.   “Masks, gloves and anything in between.”

He referred them to a state website, which can be found here. 

Testing symptomatic people is the most important cohort, Murphy added.

“Continue practice social distancing,” urged the governor, who came off a hospital bed to try to help stem the tide of the deadly COVID-19 virus. “Keeping that six foot distance is crucial. Be mindful of that. This is not the time for a game of pickup basketball. …We need everybody to do their part to slow the spread of coronavirus.”

Just yesterday, nineteen (19) New Jerseyans died in 24 hours from complications related to COVID-19, bringing the total to 81. That compares to 736 new COVID-19 cases the day prior with a statewide total of 4,402  confirmed cases.

“This grave moment is reaching deep into ourselves,” Murphy said. “It’s calling out our better angels. It’s beginning to make some of the big fights we’ve had look trivial by comparison. As tragic as the loss of life is, as real as the knots in our stomach, and the weights on our shoulder… we are coming together like never before.”

New Jersey Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli reported on the county locations of the most recent 27 deaths:

7 in Bergen

4 in Middlesex

3 Somerset

3 Monmouth

3 Essex

3 Ocean

2 Morris

1 Hudson

1 Gloucester

She added that 55 long-term care facilities have reported at least one COVID-19 positive case.