East Farmingdale, NY- The New York State Department of Health on Friday urged all New Yorkers to take “common sense precautions” to protect against COVID-19 after the Centers for Disease Control elevated the threat level for for several counties in the state. The DOH now recommends that all New Yorkers wear masks indoor public spaces, regardless of vaccination status.
“As we closely monitor the numbers and as case levels remain high across the state, now is the time for every New Yorker to get vaccinated and boosted, test following exposure or symptoms, and stay home if unwell, even if you initially test negative on an at-home test. If you test positive, consult with your provider about treatments,” said State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary T. Bassett. “In accordance with guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, we recommend that all New Yorkers in high-risk COVID-19 counties and all New Yorkers at-risk of severe disease wear a mask in public indoor places, regardless of vaccination status. These public health measures, as well as ensuring proper air ventilation when gathering, will help reduce COVID-19 transmission in communities and lower the risk of serious illness and hospitalization for individuals. We will continue to work with local partners and make every tool at our disposal widely available to New Yorkers, as we move forward through the pandemic.”
New York State COVID-19 7-day averages can be found here
New Yorkers can schedule their free COVID-19 vaccine or booster appointment by visiting the State’s Am I Eligible website or vaccines.gov to find a nearby location.
By Brett Levine
Photo: FILE – Children and their caregivers arrive for school in New York, Monday, March 7, 2022. T (AP Photo/Seth Wenig, File)