The State of New York has announced new steps to protect individuals from COVID-19 following reports of new variant BA.2.86. These steps come after COVID-19 hospitalizations in New York increased as the summer progressed.
Measures include the Department of Health and the Wadsworth Lab continuing to monitor for and analyze samples of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, as reports emerge of new strains.
Additionally, New York State continues to make high quality N-95 masks and test kits available to state and county officials by request, and is urging New Yorkers especially in high risk groups to take the updated COVID-19 vaccines coming this fall.
In a statement Gov. Hochul urges residents to take appropriate precautions to protect themselves and their communities.
