On Dec. 6, Westchester County Executive George Latimer authorized a state of emergency, which he will declare later this week if the trend continues concerning increased number of COVID infections, hospitalizations and fatalities in Westchesster. Latimer, stressed that while the numbers for each of the three metrics listed above and for hospital beds available, are nowhere near where they were during the peak of the pandemic before vaccinations were available, Westcheter County government is monitoring the situation and will take action when and if necessary.
“Where we are today is nowhere near yet what we saw at the pre vaccination peak, and that tells me that how these four indicators move in the days to come will be ther dertmining factor of what actions we take as a government. We are not there yet to go to any extreme measures, but we are moving in the wrong direction and if that projection continues to rise, we envision a step by step approach,” said Latimer, who shared the latest COVID statistics as of Dec. 6.
Active Cases: 2,867; Recent tests given 11,624-with 388 positive-3.3% positivity rate
Hospitalizations: 84, -2700 total beds available in Westchester’s 11 hospitals ; Deaths-1
Latimer said that 57% of those in the hospital for COVID were not vaccinated, or not in the system as vaccinated.
One year ago, Westchester had 5,764 active cases, a 4.4% COVID positive rate, 250 hospitalizations and 4 deaths per week.
Latimer said that if the numbers continue to rise, County government will move forward with a five-step process, the first of which is a preventative state of emergency, which Latimer is expected to sign this week. Other counties in NY State that have already declared a state of emergency are in Ulster County, Monroe County and Erie County, but all three counties have higher positivity rates than in Westchester.
“We are taking no specific mandate or action at this point, but before the government takes action I would ask every individual, business, and non-profit to understand that our numbers are rising and to do what we can do voluntarily,” said Latimer.
Westchester County government also released a “Get Boosted Campaign” on Dec. 6. The campaign will consist of a video Public Service Announcement to be released later this week, a social media campaign highlighting the necessity of “getting boosted” and a paid advertising campaign. The goal of this campaign is to reach as many Westchester residents as possible through a variety of mediums to underscore the importance of getting your COVID-19 booster shot.
Westchester County Executive George Latimer said: “We want Westchester County to emerge on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic, and getting your vaccine or booster is more important now than ever with the Omicron Variant making its way into our region. One thing that we do know is that the vaccinations are working, and it is the best way to help prevent the spread of this disease. We know that nearly all of Westchester County’s population has received at least one dose of the vaccine, and we appreciate everyone doing their part to keep our communities healthy and safe. But – if you have not yet gotten the vaccine or your booster, please make an appointment to do so. Help us turn the corner on this deadly disease.”
Westchester County is hosting multiple COVID-19 vaccine and booster clinics at locations throughout the County. Visit the County Health Department Website to schedule an appointment today.
The Department of Health is holding vaccine booster clinics for eligible individuals by appointment only, at 134 Court Street in White Plains. Schedule a Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson Booster shot HERE.
The New York State Vaccination Clinic for anyone ages five and up has moved from the Westchester County Center in White Plains, to Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla. Appointments are required. Make an appointment HERE.
The COVID-19 vaccine is free, and everyone five years of age and older is eligible to receive it. To locate pharmacies and other community sites offering the COVID-19 vaccine, use the Vaccine Finder Tool.
Westchester County, in partnership with New York State, has established an in-home vaccination program to help those who are homebound due to physical limitations, cognitive impairment or other chronic conditions, a lack of transportation, and/or visual impairments, and who do not have access to supports that may help them physically go to an existing vaccination provider. Find out more about the in-home vaccination program HERE.
County Executive Latimer is offering senior and disabled constituents, including those who are not registered with ParaTransit, free transportation to receive their COVID-19 vaccines. Call ParaTransit reservations at (914) 995-7272, 24 hours prior to your vaccination date to schedule your ride. For additional questions, email Evan Latainer, Director of the Office for People with Disabilities at ehl2@westchestergov.com.
Latimer said, “don’t consider yourself fully vaccinated unless you have the booster. I plan on getting my booster this week.” Previously, Latimer had said that his 4-year old grandson and 32 year-old in law tested COVID positive, and that as the winter approaches and everyone begins to stay inside more, the time is now to get boosted.
