New York State Flattening the Curve… Currently

New York State officials are “cautiously optimistic” that the novel coronavirus infection rate is slowing.  The three-day average for hospitalizations has declined from recent weeks, and yesterday there was a net decrease in ICU (intensive care unit) admissions for the first time.  Governor Cuomo believes the State is “flattening the curve” for COVID-19 hospitalizations, but that we must continue the “New York State on PAUSE” business and social protocols to continue this promising trend.

Assistance for New Yorkers

The State is providing $200 million in emergency assistance to enrollees in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).  Additionally, the Governor is working with Congress to create a COVID-19 Heroes Compensation Fund.  Similar to the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund, the Heroes Compensation Fund would benefit healthcare and other essential workers (and their families) impacted by COVID-19.

Reopening New York State

The Governor argued that diagnostic and antibody testing are the keys to gradually reopening activities in the State, but that the required testing volume cannot be achieved without federal assistance.  The State is working to increase antibody testing, potentially allowing those who have recovered safely from COVID-19 to return to work while more vulnerable individuals remain isolated. 

COVID-19 Numbers

As of today, 170,512 people have tested positive in New York State.  The number of deaths in the State has increased to 7,844 from 7,067.