Community spread seems to be stabilizing in Onondaga County, but the threat of the virus is still very real, especially within senior populations. County Executive Ryan McMahon reported three deaths in the last 24 hours due to COVID-19.
All three of the deceased were males: one in his 60s, one in his 80s, and one in his 90s.
“When you look at the age demographics, these are very scary numbers for our neighbors in their 90s and in their 80s who have become COVID positive, especially if they have symptoms,” said McMahon. “So as we’re learning to live with the virus, I have a lot of fear about more bad outcomes.”
Well over half of the active cases in the County still are related to senior living facilities and contact cases. McMahon said the county is doing around 515 tests per day, plenty of testing to meet the state’s reopening requirement. Central New York officials are still looking at May 16th for Phase One of restarting the economy. But business restrictions are loosening before that. McMahon issued guidance Tuesday allowing auto dealers to make appointments at their showrooms.
“This is an important way to get some people back to work,” said McMahon. “Auto sales is our number one driver of sales tax for Onondaga County and the region and certainly the state. So the state needs money. We need money. This is a way you can loosen up some regulation in a safe way and generate some more revenue.”
McMahon emphasized that this does not mean auto dealers are open to the public. An appointment must be made prior to shopping. In consideration of this and the recent resuming of elective surgeries, McMahon is confident that Onondaga and other Central New York counties are in a good position to reopen.
POSSIBLE CASES OF PUBLIC EXPOSURE
Onondaga County Health Officials warned of possible public exposure to COVID-19 Tuesday. Those who shopped at these locations on these days and times should monitor their health for the next 14 days:
- Rite Aid (519 Butternut St, Syracuse)- April 27th 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 28th 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Dollar Tree (3130 Erie Boulevard East, Dewitt)-April 28th 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.
- Target (340 Town Drive, Fayetteville)-April 28th 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
All those who tested positive were wearing a mask. More information can be found at ongov.net.
