Cases still rising in NYS; assistance is available
On Monday, Dec. 27, 26,737 New Yorkers tested positive for COVID-19. In Orange County on that day, 317 people tested positive, bringing the county’s active case number on that day to 70,926.
As the region experiences a rise in COVID-19 cases, and with the Omicron Variant present in New York State, the Orange County Department of Health is recommending the continuation of all disease prevention and mitigation strategies which allow for the safe operation of schools, businesses, and events. Mitigation strategies include but are not limited to the wearing of masks indoors when in public by all Orange County residents, frequent hand washing, timely vaccination, staying home when sick, and social distancing to reduce the spread.
The Department of Health strongly urges and recommends all persons, over the age of two, medically able to tolerate it, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask when indoors in public, in accordance with CDC guidance. Governor Kathy Hochul announced that, effective Dec. 13, masks will be required to be worn in all indoor public places unless businesses or venues implement a vaccine requirement.
Cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in Orange County. As of Dec. 15, Orange County’s transmission rate continues to be classified as HIGH by the CDC since mid-August 2021.
Approximately 62 percent of the total population in Orange County is fully vaccinated, which leaves our community vulnerable to continued disease transmission. It is imperative that health care providers encourage, and residents adhere to the CDC Disease Prevention Guidelines including, but not limited to wearing masks when in indoors and in public, regardless of vaccination status and timely vaccination among all eligible residents to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Test kits for schools
Orange County has delivered 15,845 COVID-19 boxes of test kits to Orange-Ulster BOCES for distribution to local schools.
“These test kits are convenient and can help screen for COVID positive cases” County Executive Steve Neuhaus said. “While PCR testing and working with recognized medical providers is the best way to diagnose someone with COVID-19, rapid tests are one way to help screen for positive results.”
The county’s Health Department received the kits from New York State and reallocated them to Orange-Ulster BOCES, which will send them to Orange County schools. Each kit has two quick view tests, which provide results in 15 minutes. The tests are shallow nasal swabs.
Booster shots available
Neuhaus has announced that the Health Department will host COVID-19 booster shot clinics from 2 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 5 at 23 Hatfield Lane in Goshen.
Both the Moderna and Pfizer shots will be available.
“As winter and the New Year arrive, people are spending more time indoors, and COVID-19 cases are unfortunately on the rise,” Neuhaus said. “If you have not yet received your booster vaccination, I encourage you to get the facts and make an informed decision. We will continue to distribute the booster vaccines safely, equitably, and as efficiently as possible.”
Dr. Irina Gelman, Orange County’s Health Commissioner, advises if you still have questions about vaccines or boosters, be sure to talk to your doctor or visit www.CDC.gov.
For information on how to register, visit www.orangecountygov.com. To find the nearest COVID-19 vaccination site and to register, residents can also visit: vaccines.gov. or text their zip code to 438829.
