Postpone Large Events, Avoid Malls And Theaters: PA Governor

HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday announced additional statewide measures aimed to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus.

The Wolf Administration said it "strongly encourages the suspension" of large gatherings, events, and conferences of 250 people or more.

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Recreational activities like gyms, movie theaters and trip to shopping malls are also discouraged. Religious leaders are being asked to "exercise discretion" in order to slow the spread of illness, which now has 21 confirmed cases in Pennsylvania.

Shortly after the announcement from the governor, Plymouth Meeting and Willow Grove Park malls said they will shut down.

Also Thursday, Wolf announced all Montgomery County schools would be closed for two weeks. Montgomery County, with 13 cases of the virus also known as COVID-19, is at the epicenter of Eastern Pennsylvania's outbreak.

The news comes as public agencies, schools, organizations, and even professional sports teams are restricting and canceling events.

On Wednesday, the NBA announced it was suspending its season after a player tested positive for the virus. Here's an overall look at where U.S. professional sports leagues, NCAA March Madness and the Olympics currently stand regarding the new coronavirus.

The Wells Fargo Center has closed its doors and canceled all events scheduled for Thursday, including a concert. The center said the closure is needed for a deep cleaning.

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