VIEW FROM ALBANY

COVID-19 Is Here.

But It’s Not NY’s First Rodeo

As you may have heard, last night we learned of the first confirmed case of novel coronavirus – or Covid 19 – in New York State.

The patient is a woman in her late 30s who was traveling abroad in Iran, where there is an outbreak of the virus.

Her condition is mild, and she is currently isolated in her home in Manhattan.
From the beginning, we have believed it was not a question of if New York would have a coronavirus case, but when. That’s why New York State has been preparing for weeks, and we are diligently managing the situation.

It’s important that we don’t allow fear and panic to outpace reason.

Last night’s positive test was confirmed by the state’s Wadsworth Lab in Albany, underscoring the importance of the ability for our state to ensure efficient and rapid turnaround on testing.

New York State will immediately begin working with hospitals to help them replicate the State’s FDA-approved test and reach our goal of 1,000 tests per day. Additionally, we will
institute new cleaning protocols at schools and in public transportation.

Perspective is key here. This isn’t our first rodeo – we have dealt with the swine flu, Ebola, SARS and the seasonal flu. We are fully coordinated, we are fully mobilized and we are fully prepared
to deal with this situation as it develops.

If you have symptoms and have recently traveled to China, Iran, or at-risk areas in Italy and South Korea, or if you have been in close contact with someone who has, you should seek medical care right away. Call ahead and explain your symptoms and travel.

Symptoms of the novel coronavirus are similar to the flu, and include coughing, fever and trouble breathing.

Andrew Cuomo is
New York State governor.