Bellone: More than 17,000 with COVID-19 in Suffolk; says to 'stay the course' to defeat it

In Suffolk, hospitalizations increased by 68 patients to 1,185. Those in ICU beds increased by 11 to 517 total patients. In the last 24 hours, 130 COVID-19 patients have been discharged, the largest single-day number yet.

News 12 Staff

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Apr 8, 2020, 4:31 PM

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Updated 1,722 days ago

Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said during his daily COVID-19 briefing Wednesday that just one month ago, the county saw its first case of the virus. That has ballooned up to approximately 17,000 in 30 days.

“Those are staggering numbers,” he said.

MORE: LIVE BLOG - Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond

A total of 263 county residents have died so far from the virus outbreak, and Bellone said it could approach 300 “by the end of the day.”

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Gov. Andrew Cuomo earlier in the day said that there were positive indicators in the numbers that could indicate a “flattening of the curve.” Bellone said, “The message we should take from any positive indication is not 'mission accomplished.' It's 'stay the course.'"

In Suffolk, hospitalizations increased by 68 patients to 1,185. Those in ICU beds increased by 11 to 517 total patients. In the last 24 hours, 130 COVID-19 patients have been discharged, the largest single-day number yet.

The county executive says further outreach is being made to immigrant communities that have seen higher rates of the virus. He announced “Hot Spot Testing” available by appointment only. Anyone in need can call 845-553-8030.

PHOTOS: Coronavirus heroes

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Notes from County Executive Bellone's New Conference:

Bellone: It's hard to believe that the first case was one month ago. "It doesn't feel like 30 days ago."
Just one month later, there are approximately 17,000 cases on Long Island. "Those are staggering numbers."
There are 263 deaths so far in Suffolk County. Bellone says the number will be approaching or beyond 300 by the end of the day.
Bellone: "The message we should take from any positive indication is not 'mission accomplished.' It's 'stay the course.'"
The county executive says "honor the health care heroes" by giving them what they need to combat the virus. Bellone thanks President Trump and Gov. Andrew Cuomo for PPE coming to Suffolk's first responders. 133 ventilators arrived from the state.
Bellone: "It's clear that we see higher rates in...immigrant communities and communities of color." Bellone says the county has made an effort to communicate and message in those communities about the virus. Cites language barrier and other difficulties.
Bellone announces "Hot Spot Testing" for those communities. They are available by appointment only. Call 845-553-8030.
Bellone recognizes East/West Industries that design manufacture and support products that save air crews' lives. They are going to partner with the county to provide face coverings for Suffolk's police force.
Bellone also lauds United Way of Long island and it's COVID-19 fund.
Bellone: "Evictions are not permissible" for 90 days.
Bellone: There are 1,185 hospitalizations (+68) in the county and 517 ICU patients (+11).
Bellone: In the last 24 hours, 130 COVID-19 patients have been discharged, the largest single-day number yet.