Holiday gatherings spark concern over uptick in COVID-19 cases

On Long Island, the positivity rate has been slowly going up over the past few weeks.

News 12 Staff

Apr 18, 2022, 9:17 AM

Updated 983 days ago

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After a long weekend of holiday celebrations, health officials are concerned the area could see another uptick in COVID-19 cases.
On Long Island, the positivity rate has been slowly going up over the past few weeks.
While some health experts encourage residents to wear a mask inside indoor public places, Gov. Kathy Hochul says no mask mandates or shutdowns will be coming back to New York.
As of April 14, the positivity rate on Long Island is 5.57%, but a month ago that rate was 1.67%.
Starting today, Philadelphia will be the first major city to reinstate an indoor mask mandate due to a 55% increase in COVID-19 cases over the last few weeks.
In New York, masks will be required on public transportation for another two weeks. The mask mandate was set to expire today but has been extended to May 3.
Experts warn residents that if they do not feel well, to get tested.