BINGHAMTON, NY (WSKG) — Broome County’s COVID-19 numbers are rising again.
County Executive Jason Garnar held a COVID-19 update Wednesday for the first time in two months. The county stopped posting COVID updates when numbers went down. This week, there were over 450 new positive cases.
“A month ago, we were seeing anywhere between 20 to 40 new cases a day. Now we're averaging about 100 a day,” Garnar said.
Numbers are not as high as they were in January, when cases peaked at over 800 a day. But Garnar said it’s important to recognize and stop further spread.
“We need to all pause and remember the best practices that will help us mitigate the spread of COVID that’s happening now, to ensure that we don't return to a time when cases were out of control,” Garnar said.
Hospitalizations remain low. Thirty one residents are currently hospitalized with COVID.
Broome county officials said they’re also seeing high numbers of flu cases. Between that and allergy season, Garnar said people should make sure they get tested for COVID if they aren’t feeling well.
Garnar also said residents should take precautions this weekend if they plan on gathering with family for Easter or Passover. He said getting tested and staying home if you’re feeling sick are still the best ways to stay safe.