NEW YORK — New York City announced Tuesday that it has lowered its COVID-19 alert level from high to medium as the spread of the virus has slowed, Mayor Eric Adams and the city’s Health Commissioner announced Tuesday. Dr Ashwin Vasan. The change of level arrives a month after the city had reached a high alert level.
The announcement comes one day before the Big Apple begins the administration of the COVID-19 vaccine in children between 6 months and 5 years of age after being approved on Saturday by the CDC.
“Day after day, New Yorkers are stepping up and doing their part, and thanks to our collective efforts we are winning the battle against COVID-19. As a result, we are pleased to announce that New York City has fallen into the ‘medium’ risk category,” officials noted. “Tests, vaccines, treatments and the use of masks have been vital tools in keeping people alive and out of the hospital. But we know there is no greater defense against this virus than vaccination, so we are pleased that young children now meet the criteria for the protection they deserve, and we can’t wait to start vaccinating under-5s tomorrow.”
DOHMH has provided more than 55,000 courses of the antiviral Paxlovid through home delivery this year, in addition to the thousands of courses issued through providers, helping to reduce the severity of those infected with COVID-19.
Additionally, NYC Test + Trace has distributed more than 16.5 million at-home tests to New Yorkers over the past month and more than 33 million tests since January to help keep New Yorkers home when infected.
What does it mean to enter a medium risk alert level?
COVID-19 cases per 100,000 are now at 240.4 and hospitalizations per 100,000 have dropped to 9.8. This puts New York City at medium risk, according to the current risk alert system.
What should New Yorkers do?
The medium level is when there is medium community spread of COVID-19.
At this level, they recommend the following prevention measures:
- Stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations: Vaccines are now available for everyone over 6 months of age. Here for more information.
- Wearing a mask in closed public places where vaccination status is unknown: Upgrade to higher quality masks including KN95, KF94, N95, or a cloth mask on top of a surgical mask. Higher-quality masks will most benefit people who are at high risk for severe illness, are over 65, or are unvaccinated. Here a guide.
- get tested: Testing is especially important if you have symptoms of COVID-19 or have recently been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. You should also get tested before and after traveling or meeting other people. Here information.
- Stay home if you are sick or recently exposed: Follow all isolation and quarantine guidelines, including wearing a face mask. COVID-19 is highly contagious. You can spread COVID-19 even if you don’t have symptoms. Here more.
- Wash your hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use hand sanitizer.
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