TOMPKINS COUNTY, NY – The Tompkins County Department of Health has issued another warning about the local increase in COVID-19 cases, as the number of active cases in Tompkins County has almost doubled in the past three weeks. The health department is also informing the public of the discovery of three variants of COVID-19 in local positive cases, including two that have not been seen locally before.
Again, travel and social gatherings were blamed for the growing number of cases, which grew to 150 active cases, from a low of 76 active cases on March 2. The health department also said that the United Kingdom variant, which had been observed before, as well as the New York City variant and the Southern California variant, are all present in the active cases. They did not specify how many cases of each variant were detected.
“We are concerned about this recent increase in cases,” said Public Health Director Frank Kruppa. “Although we have vaccinated almost a third of our residents, the disease is still present. We have to do what we know works to prevent it from spreading. ÇWhile more people can come together under a new orientation, it doesn’t mean that you can stop wearing masks and keep your distance. We are seeing COVID-19 spread in private meetings. “
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Leaving the vaccination rate aside, Kruppa continued to warn that the presence of variants locally could lead to more outbreaks and faster spread.
“These variants are worrying because they can spread more quickly or result in more serious illnesses,” said Kruppa. “At the moment, we are not asking the community to do anything beyond the current guidance to respond to the presence of these variants. Vaccination, wearing a mask, hand washing and detachment are still our most important tools to guarantee fewer opportunities for occurrence and dissemination of variants and mutations ”.
The TCHD is reminding Tompkins County residents that the COVID-19 test remains a critical component in preventing the spread of the disease. Individuals who are symptomatic or concerned about possible exposure should seek a test. The test is free for Tompkins County residents, for more information on the COVID-19 test, visit the TCHD location on the Internet network.
The TCHD continues to urge everyone who is eligible for a vaccination to register for the Tompkins County COVID-19 vaccine registry. As of tomorrow, all New Yorkers over the age of 50 will be eligible to receive the vaccine, although it is unclear whether the health department has the vaccine supply to begin administering vaccines at the mass vaccination site at the Shops. at Ithaca Mall. Those interested in receiving the vaccination should also check the state website scheduling website.