(WKBW) — As of Thursday, New York has 22 confirmed cases of coronavirus downstate. That's double in 24 hours.
Governor Andrew Cuomo spoke out Thursday in both an effort to try and calm fears and be transparent about COVID-19. For now, he says between 100 to 200 tests are being done a day.
"The number will continue to go up. It must because we are continuing to test more and more," Cuomo said. At this point, it's not clear if COVID-19 infections will continue through the summer months, but it' thought 80% of those who get the virus will self-resolve.
"Here the facts do not merit the level of anxiety that we are seeing," Cuomo said.
In Erie County, there are still no confirmed cases of coronavirus. Kaleida Health officials reminded the public Thursday afternoon the risk remains low for the average American. Still, the healthcare provider is preparing like there will be a case here in Western New York.
"I like the idea that people relate this to kind of a bad flu. That feels about right. But we will -- we're erring on the side of caution, but we will be learning a lot more about this in the next few months," Chief Physician Quality Officer for Kaleida, Dr. Ken Snyder, said.
Reminders to help protect both yourself and healthcare workers on the front lines include:
- Frequently wash your hands
- Cough in to a tissue or elbow
- Practice social distancing of 6 feet or more
- Stay home from work if sick
Kaleida officials say it's time to go seek medical attention if your fever is above 104, have a cought and shortness of breath. Dr. Snyder said the key here is to call first before heading to a doctor or the ER.
