A federal advisory panel on Thursday evening recommended approving Covid-19 booster shots that target the omicron variant, NPR reported. The OK comes as the state is warning New Yorkers to keep prevention efforts up ahead of school doors opening and the fall and winter seasons.
The latest state data shows a seven-day average of 20 positive cases per 100,000 New Yorkers—that's down from last month's peak of 37 per 100,000. Locally Onondaga County is seeing about 19 cases per 100,000 residents.
In a statement on Thursday, Gov. Kathy Hochul urged residents to get vaccinated and boosted, especially as students return to the classroom.
"With the fall season rapidly approaching, I remind all New Yorkers to remain vigilant in order to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy," Hochul said.
Official CDC approval of the new boosters is expected Friday, according to NPR.