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Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)
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Last Updated: April 8, 2020 at 4:45PM
What You Need to Know
  • Governor Cuomo directed schools and nonessential businesses to stay closed for an additional two weeks through April 29th.
  • NYS is investing in private companies to bring rapid testing to scale: interested businesses should contact Empire State Development at 212-803-3100 or [email protected].
  • The Department of Health has developed a test to detect antibodies to the COVID-19 infection in an individual's blood. 
  • SUNY Albany President Havidan Rodriguez is working with State Department of Health and Northwell Health to conduct more COVID-19 data research and increase testing in minority communities. 
  • $600 in additional weekly unemployment benefits will be made available to all New Yorkers; and the period covered by unemployment benefits is being extended for another 13 weeks, for total of 39 weeks.
  • Flags on state government buildings have been directed to be flown at half-staff in honor of those we have lost to COVID-19 and will remain lowered while New York is on PAUSE.
  • An executive order is being issued to ensure New Yorkers can vote absentee in the June 23rd primary elections.
  • NYS is increasing the maximum fine for violations of the state's social distancing protocol from $500 to $1,000 to help address the lack of adherence to social distancing protocols.
  • New Yorkers without health insurance can apply through NY State of Health through May 15, 2020; must apply within 60 days of losing coverage.
  • New Yorkers can call the COVID-19 Emotional Support Hotline at 1-844-863-9314 for mental health counseling.
  • Testing is free for all eligible New Yorkers as ordered by a health care provider.
  • Your local health department is your community contact for COVID-19 concerns.  

Guidance on Essential Services

This guidance applies to each business location individually and is intended to assist businesses in determining whether they are an essential business and steps to request such designation.

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Help Stop the Spread of the Novel Coronavirus
Protect Yourself and Others
Practice Social Distancing

Even if you feel well, stay at home as much as possible. In public, keep at least 6 feet distance from others. Avoid unnecessary appointments.

Wash Your Hands. Cover Your Cough

Cover your cough and sneezes. Use your elbow or a tissue. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

Take Caution with New Yorkers At-Risk

Take special caution to avoid exposing the elderly and people with underlying health conditions. Avoid visiting those most at risk, call instead.  Offer help with groceries and other goods.

COVID-19 TRACKER
View a county-by-county breakdown of testing and positive cases around New York State.
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