The Saratoga County Department of Public Health today announced that there are 235 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Saratoga County and 14 of those individuals are hospitalized at this time.
To date, 2,804 residents have been tested, producing a positive test rate of 8.38%. It is important to note that with every positive case that is placed in isolation, there could be anywhere from two to 50 people who may have made close contact and should be placed into quarantine. By quarantining close contacts, we are slowing the spread; when those in quarantine become sick, they are not out spreading the disease.
How are we doing so far?
Our local hospitals are able to keep up with the number of patients who need an ICU bed or ventilator, and there is no staffing shortage at the current rate. This positive effect can only be achieved by everyone staying home and stopping the spread. If everyone fails to social distance, the number of positive cases will rise and potentially compromise our healthcare system. It’s important to understand that we must remain steady on this course.
The importance of masks and how to make your own
Earlier today, Governor Cuomo released a new Executive Order declaring that anyone who is out in public must wear a mask if social distancing is not possible.
The Department of Public Health is encouraging all individuals to wear a mask any time they are out in public. That being said, we are aware of mask shortages. The CDC has a helpful resource on its website outlining how to wear a mask and instructions on how to make a homemade mask. That link can be accessed here. Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing. Be sure to wash your homemade mask often.