More than 170 nations worldwide have confirmed cases of the coronavirus. The following have the highest number as of 4 a.m. ET*:
- US 189,633 (+15.20%)
- Italy 105,792 (+3.98%)
- Spain 95,923 (+9.06%)
- China 82,301 (+0.07%)
- Germany 71,808 (+7.36%)
- France 52,836 (+16.97%)
- Iran 44,605 (+7.49%)
- UK 25,481 (+13.48%)
- Switzerland 16,605 (+4.29%)
- Turkey 13,531 (+24.97%)
Source: Johns Hopkins University
Posted: April 1st, 2020 under Heathcare News.
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Posted: April 1st, 2020 under Community Events.
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Plattsburgh, March 31, 2020. Several new laboratory-confirmed cases of COVID-19 bring the total in Clinton County to 20. This figure represents the total number of positive test results since testing began. To date, 160 tests have come back negative. Five individuals have recovered. Recovered cases are included in the total case count.
“CCHD continues to track the total number of individuals who have, or have had the virus,” noted Erin Streiff, Director of Health Care Services for Clinton County Health Department. “Those who have recovered, will always be a part of the total count.” However, she cautioned that new criteria for identifying cases may be used in the days and weeks ahead. As we move forward without enough testing supplies, some cases will be identified through a subjective determination rather than a confirmatory test. These cases, identified through an assessment of symptoms, may be included in the number of positive cases reported. “If you begin seeing differences between the numbers that CCHD, CVPH or the NYS Department of Health are reporting, this may be the cause,” according to Ms. Streiff.
Health Department staff who are taking calls and monitoring social media report that the public has been asking for a definition of recovery. Ms. Streiff responded, “Recovery is defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications; and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and at least 7 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.” She added, “Individuals are expected to continue isolation for at least 3 days (72 hours) after recovery.”
Recovery times vary from person to person, as does the severity of symptoms. Due to the limited supply of testing supplies no follow-up tests are performed. At this time, it is not known if a person can contract COVID-19 a second time, however, individuals who have had the illness will likely have sufficient antibodies to ward off severe complications if they come down with COVID-19 a second time. There is still much that is unknown about this virus but as public health entities work to combat the effects of COVID-19 on the population, scientists and epidemiologists are studying and learning daily about the specific characteristics of the virus.
Questions about testing also abound. The North Country still lacks adequate numbers of test kits. Local leaders have been diligent in their efforts to acquire more kits and are working with political representatives to garner more supplies for the region. Individual provider offices are also seeking and having some success in finding test supplies. In the coming weeks, there will likely be additional testing happening in our community.
“Persons who have any physical mobility or other needs, call the telephone number above to arrange for accommodations,” Ms. Streiff noted, “This bears repeating. Assume that anyone you come in contact with could have COVID-19, whether they have been tested or not. Remain vigilant in practicing social distancing.” She further emphasized, “Just because someone is not positive for COVID-19 today does not mean they won’t be positive several days from now. Testing is not treatment. Maintaining social distance and practicing good hand hygiene are still our best defense.”
Posted: March 31st, 2020 under County Government News, Heathcare News.
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State Adopts New Recreational and Commercial Slot Size Limits
With Striped Bass Seasons Approaching, New York Anglers Are Encouraged to Get Outside Safely, Practice Social Distancing during COVID-19 Public Health Crisis
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today announced the adoption of new regulations for recreational and commercial fishing for Atlantic striped bass. These regulations, which take effect immediately, are to reduce state commercial and recreational harvests by 18 percent as required by the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission (ASMFC). Recreational striped bass seasons start on April 1 in the Hudson River and tributaries and on April 15 in marine waters. DEC reminds anglers to practice social distancing to prevent the potential spread of COVID-19.
The Atlantic coast-wide harvest of striped bass is managed by ASMFC. To address the finding that the striped bass resource is overfished and experiencing overfishing, ASMFC initiated and approved Addendum VI to Amendment 6 (PDF) of the Interstate Fishery Management Plan (FMP) for Atlantic Striped Bass to reduce harvest, end overfishing, and bring fishing mortality to the target level in 2020.
After presenting several options and seeking stakeholder input last year, New York State adopted state fishing regulation changes that reflect ASMFC’s Addendum measures and are in accordance with the FMP. The open seasons for striped bass in all New York waters have not changed. New York State worked cooperatively with other members of ASMFC to adopt consistent slot limit regulations and comparable season dates. The Addendum also requires all states to require the use of circle hooks when fishing with bait for the 2021 striped bass fishing season. Catch and release practices contribute significantly to overall fishing mortality and circle hooks work effectively to reduce release mortality in the recreational striped bass fisheries. Anglers are encouraged to use circle hooks in 2020 when using bait.
2020 Striped Bass Recreational Regulations:
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Posted: March 31st, 2020 under Law Enforcement News, State Government News.
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Getting out fishing is a great way to get fresh air, connect with nature, and have fun. During the public health crisis COVID-19, here are some helpful things to keep in mind when it comes to planning your next fishing trip.
Get your fishing license
With the closure of town clerks offices and many stores, you can purchase your fishing license online or over the phone, by calling 1-866-933-2257.
Know the Fishing Regulations
Yes, they still apply. Hardcopy requests will be delayed due to closures, but you can download a PDF version of the new 2020/2021 regulations guide from our website. To receive a hard copy, send an email to fwfish@dec.ny.gov and provide your mailing address.
Be Safe
Practice safe social distancing (at least six feet from another person), stay local and avoid crowded fishing spots.
Posted: March 31st, 2020 under General News, Law Enforcement News.
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From Congresswoman Elise Stefanik
Following the passage of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, my office put together a new website with specific information on what the stimulus package does for families, healthcare workers, seniors, small businesses, veterans, students, and rural communities. It also includes Frequently Asked Questions and general COVID-19 resources for each individual group. Click here to view the website
Posted: March 31st, 2020 under Congressional News, General News, Heathcare News.
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Chamber introduces now hiring page to northcountrychamber.com!
Plattsburgh, NY – 3/31/20 – There is no question that this time of challenge has negatively impacted employment in the North Country and resulted in many layoffs for the unforeseeable future. However, there are several sectors that have had a surge in business because of this situation and THEY. ARE. HIRING!
With this in mind, the North Country Chamber of Commerce has added a “Now Hiring” page to their website to help their member businesses showcase their job offerings to potential applicants. Industries include pharmacies, grocery stores, hospitals, rehabilitation centers, nursing homes, manufacturing facilities and more! Applicants can apply through the links provided on the Chamber’s website or call one of our local staffing agencies to get help with the entire hiring process.
**If you are a member of the Chamber and are currently hiring, email your business name and how to apply to chamber@westelcom.com. **
For more information on Coronavirus resources, small business information, health insurance and so much more, visit northcountrychamber.com!
Posted: March 31st, 2020 under Business News, Heathcare News.
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