John Kopp
John Kopp is the Chief Health Reporter/Assistant Editor at PhillyVoice. He joined the newsroom after spending five years reporting for the Delaware County Daily Times. He spent the prior year covering state and local politics, including a $4 million Pennsylvania state Senate race. He previously covered Chester city government, the Chester Upland School District and high-school sports. A Temple University graduate, John enjoys long-distance running, watching baseball and exploring new places.
April 23, 2020
Government
Pennsylvania to reopen in three phases on a region-by-region basis
Pennsylvania will reopen its economy in three phases as it emerges from the coronavirus pandemic, gradually removing stay-at-home orders and relaxing business restrictions on a regional basis. Social distancing measures will be lifted as COVID-19 cases dip below a threshold identified by public health officials.April 20, 2020
Mental Health
Will the coronavirus pandemic make you a germaphobe? Probably not, but it may bring new habits
The coronavirus pandemic is unlikely to create a generation of germaphobes, mental health experts say. But it could cause behavioral changes – like frequent hand washing or stashing away Clorox disinfectant wipes.April 20, 2020
Government
Pennsylvania's stay-at-home order extended through May 8
Pennsylvania's stay-at-home order has been extended through May 8, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday as protesters outside the state capitol called for it to be lifted. Wolf relaxed several restrictions, permitting some construction and online car sales. Curbside pickup at the state's liquor stores also will become available.April 10, 2020
Mental Health
Asking Americans to wear cloth masks is a hard sell – there's a psychological reason why
The theory of psychological reactance explains why many Americans have resisted wearing cloth masks or adhering to social distancing guidelines during the coronavirus pandemic, according to Swarthmore College behavioral scientist Syon Bhanot.April 8, 2020
Parks
Philly parks remain open, but closures are 'not off the table,' Mayor Kenney says
Philadelphia potentially could close its park system if people do not adhere to social distancing guidelines, Mayor Jim Kenney said Wednesday. Wissahickon Valley Park and others have seen an influx of people during the coronavirus pandemic, including some groups that are ignoring physical distance recommendations.April 3, 2020
Prevention
Here's how to make your own face mask for when you need to leave home
The CDC along with Pennsylvania and Philadelphia officials are urging residents to wear cloth face masks when leaving their homes during the coronavirus pandemic. Here's how to make one from materials in your home.March 31, 2020
Prevention
The CDC may advise Americans to wear masks in public after all
Wearing face masks have been discouraged by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention during the coronavirus pandemic. But it is now considering advising Americans to wear non-medical masks in public, because they can prevent the spread of COVID-19 when worn by people who are ill – particularly those who aren't displaying symptoms.March 31, 2020
Illness
Drive-thru coronavirus testing site opening in Camden
A drive-thru COVID-19 testing site is opening at Cooper's Poynt Park in Camden, New Jersey. The testing site is open to county residents who display coronavirus symptoms and have obtained a referral from a medical provider.March 30, 2020
Health News
Pennsylvania schools, businesses must remain closed indefinitely, Gov. Wolf says
All Pennsylvania schools and non-life-sustaining business must remain closed indefinitely, Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday, March 30. He also extended the stay-at-home order affecting 26 counties, including Philadelphia, through April 30. That falls in line with social distancing guidelines announced Sunday by President Donald Trump.March 26, 2020
Health News
Pennsylvania allocates $50 million for medical equipment to help hospitals weather coronavirus storm
As the coronavirus crises worsens in Pennsylvania, state officials are setting aside $50 million to purchase medical equipment and supplies, including beds, ventilators and personal protective gear. Gov. Tom Wolf announced the re-allocated funds as the state's COVID-19 cases increased to 1,687 on Thursday, March 26, 2020.Just In
- Protest erupts at Penn after pro-Palestinian students attempt to occupy academic building
- Binge drinking is a growing public health crisis − here's how research on alcohol use disorder has shifted
- Queen & Rook set to move to South Street, opening largest board game cafe on East Coast
- Raccoon interrupts Union match, skillfully dodging trash can-wielding stadium workers
- Waiting to remove life support may provide a clearer picture of a patient's outlook, study shows
- Stonewall exhibit in New York to feature Philly's role in gay rights movement
Must Read
