As per Governor Cuomo’s March 9, 2020 press conference, New York State (NYS) has a total of 142 confirmed cases of Coronavirus (COVID-19). As more labs are accredited to do testing in NYS, it is likely we will see more positive cases across the state.
As of March 9, 2020 Allegany County still has no confirmed cases. However, we do have four adult individuals from two different households that have been tested for COVID-19 out of an abundance of caution. All four individuals are staying homebound within the parameters set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH).
We have been preparing for this situation for the last several weeks. We are responding quickly and comprehensively to prevent potential future exposures to ensure public health and safety. Public Health officials have interviewed the tested individuals to assess recent contacts and will continue the investigative chain. We will update the public as the situation develops.
We would like to reiterate that any resident experiencing a fever, with cough or shortness of breath should call your health care provider (don’t show up at their office before calling). If symptoms are severe, call 911.
The ACDOH has been working diligently with our various County partners, including our County Office of Emergency Services (OES), local healthcare associates, educational institutions and local emergency management planners, to ensure the County is prepared and ready for any threat to Allegany County residents.
The Allegany County Department of Health (ACDOH) reminds residents that the common cold and flu viruses are still prevalent, so protect yourself and your family:
· Avoid contact with sick people, especially if you are elderly, have young children, or are immune compromised.
· Stay home and away from large gatherings of people.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. This is especially important after using the bathroom, coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose and before eating.
· If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains a minimum of 60-95% alcohol.
· Disinfect commonly touched surfaces (following manufacturer’s instructions) daily or more often as needed (door knobs, computer keyboards, phones, light switches, faucet handles, bathroom and kitchen surfaces, etc.) with a cleaner that is approved for disinfection (read and follow label instructions).
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth, especially with unwashed hands.
· Cover your cough and sneeze (away from others, into your elbow, into a tissue and not in your hands-immediately throw tissue away in trash).
· Stay home if you are sick (at least 24 hours after fever ends).
· It’s not too late to get your flu shot.
o Everyone ages 6 months and older should be vaccinated against the flu, with doctor consent.
o ACDOH is still providing flu vaccine, as are local pharmacies (see list of pharmacies below).
The NYSDOH has developed a Coronavirus hotline (1-888-364-3065) where the public may reach out with questions or concerns about travel and symptoms. Of course, if any Allegany County resident has questions or concerns regarding Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) or travel related questions, please feel free to contact our office directly at 585-268-9250. To follow the most current information on Coronavirus, please visit either the CDC or NYSDOH webpages at:
