Covid still present, influenza on the rise

Chart from Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

Nearly three years since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic, residents continue to contract Covid in Orleans County, although the most recent week shows a drop from 47 confirmed cases during the week of Nov. 30-Dec. 6 to 26 from Dec. 7-13.

Genesee County saw an increase in cases, from 55 to 76, according to data from the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments.

Both counties are considered at the medium level for community level. At that level, the CDC recommends people at high risk of getting sick to wear a high-quality mask or respirator (e.g., N95) when indoors in public.

Right now, influenza cases are outpacing Covid locally. There were 125 cases reported last week in Orleans, and 115 in Genesee, according to the state Department of Health.

The 44,426 cases in the state, for the week ending Dec. 3, were up 64 percent from previous week.

Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to take basic steps to protect against the spread of viral respiratory infections.

“As we continue the spread of respiratory illnesses, the flu, and Covid-19 throughout our state, I urge all New Yorkers to remain vigilant and continue to use all available tools to keep themselves, their loved ones and their communities safe and healthy,” Hochul said. “Stay up to date on vaccine doses, and test before gatherings or travel this holiday season. If you test positive, talk to your doctor about potential treatment options.”