Although the Finger Lakes region was once shown as a leading example of how to keep COVID-19 cases down, the virus has reversed course in Monroe County. Now, the Rochester area is a hot spot for coronavirus infections — and locals aren’t happy about what that means for their ability to go about their daily lives.
Earlier this week, parts of Monroe County (as well as Erie and Onondaga Counties) were designated as “yellow-level cluster zones” to indicate significant rises in COVID-19 cases. On Thursday, Monroe County health officials reported 300 new cases of coronavirus — a new record high for the largest single day increase after Wednesday’s 281 reported cases. In addition, the number of hospitalizations within the region is up by more than 100 from just 19 days ago, which isn’t good news for the hospitals in the region (representing just a handful of 6,210 hospitals that exist nationwide). Officials also note that 3,718 Monroe County residents are now under mandatory quarantine, with another 2,000 in isolation. With 1,730 active cases countywide, we’re not seeing the highest number of cases since the pandemic began.
Although 60% of substances placed onto the skin are absorbed into the bloodstream, including the chemicals found in commercial soap, officials are still urging residents to be vigilant about hand-washing and mask-wearing. Of course, avoiding large gatherings is also a necessary measure. When these micro-clusters are identified, the areas in question are put under restrictions in an attempt to stop viral spread. Mass gatherings have now been limited to 25 people and local schools are required to increase their testing measures. While parents do still retain the power to consent to testing — and many parents have voiced outrage to the idea of testing in schools — local health officials urge that testing is one of the best ways to protect both kids and adults in the region.
Already, local businesses were struggling — but now that more restrictions have been put in place, bars and restaurants are also pushing back. Although voice actors can essentially work from anywhere (and often do), most local performers have been completely side-lined during the pandemic. And while bars and restaurants can remain open during this latest spike, they’re now being required to close early and limit their tables to four people. While the initial limitation said that these establishments could remain open until midnight, the state has now placed a 10 pm closure time into effect. Owners and employees have maintained that’s going to make it even harder for them to survive, particularly because unemployment benefits have long since returned to their normal levels and there may be no economic relief in sight for these businesses.
For now, most residents hope that the restrictions won’t last for long. But with most of the area’s suburbs and the city itself now designated as hot spots, those hopes hinge on residents doing the right thing. And as we head into the fall and winter holidays, whether that’s a realistic wish is anyone’s guess.
