Gov. Tom Wolf on Tuesday ordered all state flags on Pennsylvania public buildings and grounds flown at half-staff to honor the victims of the coronavirus pandemic.

“Too many Pennsylvanians have lost their lives to covid-19, and, unfortunately, many more will die,” Wolf said as the state saw the largest single-day jump in deaths from the disease so far — climbing by 78, to 240 deaths.

“Each of these Pennsylvanians is irreplaceable,” he said. “Each deserves to be honored individually for their contributions to our commonwealth, but this cruel disease will not give us a respite to mourn.”

Because of social distancing initiated to slow the spread of the disease, he said, “this virus prevents us from honoring the dead at traditional gatherings. We cannot have funerals, wakes, or sit shiva. I hope this flag-lowering provides some solace to the grieving families and friends.”

Wolf invited all Pennsylvanians to join in flying the state flag at half-staff until a date to be announced — after the pandemic ends.

Allegheny County reported two new deaths Tuesday, bringing its total to six.

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