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COVID-19 Update: McMahon Says Social Distancing Still Needed, Key To Restart Is Balance

Onondaga County Executive's Office
/
Youtube

  Even though the voluntary shelter-in-place order expired in Onondaga County Tuesday, County Executive Ryan McMahon said that does not mean it is time to relax social distancing practices.

 

 

McMahon said people should still stay at home, avoid large gatherings, and wear masks in public. 

“So you don’t need me to tell you how to do more social distancing within your own calendar and your own lives,” said McMahon. “You don’t need me to do that. You can do that. I have every confidence that we will do that.”

The number of recoveries Wednesday outpaced the number of active cases in the county, even as proactive testing continues at assisted and independent living facilities. McMahon said the state has taken over testing of nursing home residents and employees.  

As the data trends positively in the county and conversations about reopening the local economy continue, McMahon said he is hearing from both sides of opinion about when to reopen. He emphasized that it will happen, but it will be a slow and measured approach.

Credit Onondaga County Executive's Office / ongov.net/health
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ongov.net/health
The state of COVID-19 in Onondaga County as of April 22nd, 2020.

  “The main goal being that our healthcare system has to continue to be able to meet the challenge of the restart in every phase,” said McMahon. “So, I know there is a lot of anxiety about this. We have to find that balance as a community.”

Leaders from Central New York county health departments met Wednesday to further discuss a regional plan to present to the State. McMahon did not provide specifics, but said they are also seeking feedback from the private sector and additional government agencies.

 

Katie Zilcosky is WAER’s All Things Considered host and features reporter. She also co-hosts WAER’s public affairs show Syracuse Speaks. As a reporter, she focuses on technology, economy, and identity.