The Peru Gazette

April 28, 2020

Lab-confirmed positive 63, Recovered 51, Deaths 3

Probable* 3, Recovered 2, Deaths 1

Suspect** 41, Recovered 40, Deaths 0

Active Cases 10

Tested 670

Plattsburgh – Clinton County Health Department (CCHD) reports that as of today, there are 10 active cases of COVID-19 in the County. Of those who were tested and were positive for COVID-19, 51 have recovered. An additional 40 individuals who were considered suspect for having COVID-19 have recovered, along with two of the probable causes. In total, since testing began, 93 people have recovered, 10 continue to have symptoms ranging from severe to mild and four have died. Reports of testing in Clinton County provided by CCHD indicate that between April 22nd and April 28th, 126 individuals have been tested. During the same time frame, 7 new cases have been reported.

“Recovery numbers are a good reminder that most of the people who contract COVID-19 will have a mild or non-life-threatening course of illness. That’s important to keep in mind,” stated John Kanoza, Director of Public Health in Clinton County.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to advise that older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 illness. However, the CDC has also noted that younger adults are also getting COVID-19, and some are requiring hospitalization, even intensive care. (https://bit.ly/35beVyH).

“As we move forward it will be important to have plans in place to protect the most vulnerable among us. We also need to keep in mind that COVID-19 can affect anyone at any age. Residents will be asked to continue to monitor their own health and communicate symptoms to their health care providers. Businesses and organizations are being asked to have policies in place that ensure worker safety. Contact tracing will continue and community support for compliance with quarantine and isolation guidance will be needed,” stated Mr. Kanoza.

In a video briefing released today, Eric Day, Director of the Clinton County Office of Emergency Services (OES) reported that his department has supplied health care providers, emergency medical service providers and nursing homes with personal protective equipment (PPE). Cloth masks have been distributed to the nursing home and congregate-living residents, as well as to essential businesses. Earlier releases of information from the County have indicated increased testing capacity and an effective contact tracing system. Sufficient PPE and testing are among the criteria outlined by Governor Cuomo as necessary to begin resuming a more normal level of activity. Mr. Day also used the video opportunity to remind residents of the value of community efforts including physical distancing and wearing masks. Mr. Day noted, “As things begin to open up, we can’t back down. We can’t lower our guard.” The video may be accessed at https://youtu.be/EKFRILxGj2Q.

*Probable = Individuals tested for COVID-19 with inconclusive test results.
**Suspect = Individuals suspected of having COVID-19 based on clinical assessment