We’re seeing more examples of community transmission of COVID-19 in New York City between people who have no direct connection to travel to one of the affected countries.
So far we've had 5 people test positive for COVID-19. 47 people have tested negative. 40 have results pending.
We’re giving new guidance to New Yorkers to keep our city safe.
First: for New Yorkers who are well and have NO symptoms, take basic precautions: wash your hands thoroughly, don’t touch your face and avoid handshakes and other hand-to-hand contact.
Monitor your own health more closely than usual. Watch for symptoms of cold and flu: sore throat, cough, fever, shortness of breath. Treat it differently than usual. This is important.
New Yorkers are used to powering through the workweek when they’re feeling sick, but we’re asking you to change that.
Even though the common cold and flu are much more common causes of symptoms than COVID-19, we want those who might have COVID-19 to get care and not spread it to others. So STAY HOME if you have cold or flu symptoms. Same applies for school-aged kids.
Let your doctor know about your symptoms. If they don’t get better in 24-48 hours, get to your doctor.
If you don't have a doctor or don't know where to get care and testing, call 311.
If you don't have a doctor or don't know where to get care and testing, call 311.
Now for some good news: we've had a major breakthrough bringing private sector testing online. This means we can test hundreds of people per day — but we want to get to testing thousands of people per day.
We need the FDA to approve faster, more efficient testing. The faster the results, the faster we can limit the spread.
This is a city that guarantees health care for everyone who needs it, regardless of ability to pay or immigration status. If you do not have insurance or don't know where to go, call 311. We will help you find a facility. If you're unable to pay, you will still get treated.
I know people are anxious and we will continue to update with more information as we have it. New Yorkers are resilient — I know we will get through this together.
Head to nyc.gov/coronavirus for more info.
Head to nyc.gov/coronavirus for more info.
