The increasing number of COVID-19 cases in Onondaga County may soon result in state action. Governor Andrew Cuomo on Friday said he’s concerned about the large number of cases in the area. A record 149 new cases of COVID-19 in a single day were reported Friday, and hospitalizations are also rising.
County Executive Ryan McMahon says the region risks stressing its hospital infrastructure if cases numbers continue to rise.
“And that’s not just going to impact those with covid,” said McMahon. “It’s going to impact people who are in car accidents. People who have heart attacks. People who have cancer, elective surgeries. Now’s the time to wake up.”
Cuomo is expected to speak with McMahon in the coming days about appropriate responses to the increased level of virus. McMahon said he is hoping the Governor will offer more resources, such as rapid tests. He also said that the legal size of gatherings may need to be adjusted. Local data has shown that the recent rise in cases is associated with social gatherings.
“We’ve been saying this for two and a half, three weeks, and we haven’t been getting the community response. So, certainly I will talk about gatherings with the Governor.”
McMahon said he expects Saturday to be another day with a high case load. The county will provide free asymptomatic testing this weekend, but an appointment will be required. More information on that and all other testing being offered in the community is available at covid19.ongov.net
MAYOR WALSH IN COVID-19 QUARANTINE AGAIN
Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh is in quarantine after being in contact with a city employee who tested positive for the coronavirus. Walsh said both he and the employee are not showing any symptoms. The mayor is planning to get tested next week. Walsh said, “My own quarantine shows how the numbers are going up everywhere.” He adds that people need to wear masks and maintain distance from each other to slow the spread in the community.
