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2 cases of COVID-19 reported in Allegany County; emergency declared By JIM ECKSTROM BELMONT — Two cases of COVID-19 infection were confirmed March 15 in Allegany County, the first such cases reported in either Allegany or Cattaraugus counties. The Allegany County Department of Health reported Sunday evening that both cases were confirmed through testing at the Erie County Public Health Lab. The news came as Cattaraugus County declared a state of emergency Sunday over COVID-19; Allegany County declared an emergency Saturday. Based on an initial review of the cases of infection in Allegany County, the individuals appear to have had separate exposures to the novel coronavirus, according to a statement by Theresa Moore, supervising public health educator/public information officer. One is a male in his early 20s and is recuperating at home, Moore said. Aside from testing, this individual has remained in his residence since returning from downstate New York. The other is a 5-year old boy, also recuperating at home. Moore said neither of the individuals have been hospitalized. Each will continue to recover at home under mandatory isolation, per New York State Department of Health guidelines. Moore said Allegany County health officials have begun an intensive investigation to identify the close contacts of the two individuals. Once identified, the close contacts will be notified of their potential exposure to COVID-19 and placed under mandatory quarantine to monitor for symptoms.
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“As the situation evolves it is likely we will find additional cases,” Moore’s statement read. “Our goal is to identify new cases quickly and prevent or limit secondary exposures to ensure public health and safety.” Moore reiterated that any residents experiencing a fever, with cough or shortness of breath should call their health care providers. Residents are reminded not to show up at a doctor’s office, urgent care site or emergency room before calling. If symptoms are severe and/ or you require an ambulance for transport, call 911 and notify the operator that you are experiencing symptoms relative to COVID-19. Meanwhile, Allegany County declared a state of emergency late March 14 in response to COVID-19, a day before learning that the two residents were confirmed as infected. Curt Crandall, R-Belfast, chairman of the Board of Legislators, made the declaration, which was witnessed by Carissa M. Knapp, the county administrator. “It is necessary that Allegany County be proactive and fully prepared to deal with its effects,” Crandall said. The declaration took effect at 10 p.m., with the primary purpose of supporting the county’s public health director in her decision-making regarding. “This state of emergency does not in any way impact travel at this time,” Crandall stated. “County government operations will continue unchanged unless otherwise advised. I hereby direct all departments and agencies of Allegany County to take whatever steps necessary to pro-
tect life, health, property, public infrastructure and provide such emergency assistance deemed necessary.” Public Health Director Lori Ballengee met with Allegany County school superintendents on March 13 to discuss issues related to COVID-19 and the possibility of an extended dismissal of students. Gov. Andrew Cuomo, through his executive order Friday, placed authority for school dismissal at the local level, making a county level state of emergency necessary to support the dismissal of Allegany County schools. Allegany County officials have directed schools to dismiss students beginning March 18 through April 12. Schools in Allegany County will be utilizing Monday and Tuesday to prepare staff and students for this extended dismissal. In the interim, Allegany County officials are continuing to monitor and respond to all COVID-19 concerns and remain in close communication with school districts, Crandall said. “As COVID-19 is a brand-new disease, it is better to err on the side of caution through support of social-distancing measures as we learn how this virus reacts,” Crandall said. “This is not a time for fear and panic but rather planning and precaution.” Steuben County also declared a state of emergency in response to COVID-19, effective 12 a.m. March 18. Steuben County Manager Jack Wheeler and Public Health Director Darlene Smith met with school superintendents to plan for extended closing of schools.
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Allegany County operations reduced because of COVID-19
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BELMONT — The rapid increases in suspected and confirmed cases of COVID-19 is an unprecedented public health emergency facing all New Yorkers. Allegany County has been directed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo to immediately reduce the county workforce by 50% until March 31. In response to this, Allegany County governmental departments and facilities will remain open; however, staffing will be reduced to essential employees. In order to meet the governor’s directive, county officials have implemented social distancing with limited face-to-face contact for the safety of our valued employees as well as the general public. Department heads have been directed to formulate a schedule that meets this demand. Staff is being directed by their specific department heads and supervisors.
For the public needing to do business with any of our departments, we ask that you call ahead, rather than personally showing up. Allegany County department heads are also working diligently and utilizing today’s technology to allow non-essential employees to work from home to further reduce staff and public exposure to the extent practicable. While they are home, these employees may be assigned work outside of their normal duties. The county may change an employee’s designation as either essential or nonessential at any time. County officials thank the department heads and employees as they work through the unprecedented crisis — as well as the general public for their understanding as we continue to provide needed services. The county will continue to monitor the situation and make adjustments as needed.
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