(AP) - New Jersey reported more than 180 new coronavirus deaths on Thursday, double the number from the previous day, bringing the state's total toll to 537 people. Gov. Phil Murphy says the jump stems from reporting delays as health care officials determine the cause of deaths. A surge of cases is hitting northern New Jersey, which health officials say is the hardest-hit part of the state so far. Murphy says New Jersey has more than 25,000 positive cases, up about 3,500 over the previous 24 hours. The state is preparing to open its first field hospital in the Meadowlands to handle non-coronavirus cases.

The statewide total number of coronavirus cases in New Jersey now stands at 25,590 cases, after Gov. Phil Murphy just announced 3,489 new cases. The governor also announced 182 additional deaths, bringing the statewide death toll to 537.

- Gov. Murphy says that although the weather is nice today, it is important to continue to practice social distancing.

 - Gov. Murphy discusses touring the FEMA hospital set up at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus.

 

- The governor has signed an executive order authorizing the New Jersey State Police to commandeer medical supplies and equipment.

 - Gov. Murphy announces more PPE donations. Continues to emphasize the need for additional supplies.

- Blood donations are allowed to continue in New Jersey.

 - An update on the COVID-19 testing sites.

 - More than 206,000 new claims of unemployment were filed within the last week.

 - Intentionally spitting or coughing on someone and claiming to have coronavirus is now considered an assault.

 - Gov. Murphy announces an effort to highlight the "heroes" fighting against the pandemic. Use #NJThanksyou

- The governor announces the death of veteran Hudson County Corrections Officer Bernard Waddell. 

 

 

 

 

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