Suffolk's Coronavirus Cases Jump 50% Overnight To 966

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — The anticipated post-Thanksgiving surge in coronavirus cases has begun in Suffolk County, with a dramatic uptick of more than 50 percent in new cases over the past 24 hours, according to county Executive Steve Bellone. In addition, county officials are warning about possible coronavirus exposure at two Suffolk eateries.

There were 966 new cases reported Wednesday, compared to 609 on Tuesday.

“For the second day in a row, Suffolk’s positivity rate is above 5 percent, an alarming number we have not seen since the spring," Bellone said. "With 966 new cases, we are beginning to see the first signs of the post-Thanksgiving holiday surge we had warned about."

Suffolk health officials are also advising anyone who visited Senor Taco Mexican Grill & Bar, located at 1028 Route 25A in Mount Sinai, on November 20 or 24, and anyone who visited Phil’s Restaurant, located at 1856 Wading River Manor Road in Wading River, on November 20, 21, 23 or 24 that they may have been exposed to the coronavirus.

According to the Suffolk County Department of Health, more than one person connected with each of those restaurants has contracted the virus.

Those who were potentially exposed should get tested and monitor themselves for symptoms for 14 days after visiting the restaurant, county officials said.

Bellone said the county has taken a proactive approach in addressing the second wave of the virus.

"We have been here before, we know how and where this virus spreads, and we have the blueprints needed to once again flatten the curve," he said. "We know that small gatherings among family and friends have the highest transmission of all events."

On Wednesday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said 70 percent of new cases in the state are being traced back to small gatherings.

“With some of the most challenging days ahead as we try to navigate the holiday season, now is the time to double down on the common sense measures that work," Bellone said. "Social distancing and mask guidelines are essential to beating back this virus and ensuring our hospital system does not get overwhelmed. While a vaccine is on the horizon, our actions these next 30 plus days will be critical to our continued recovery."

On Tuesday, Bellone also said the county will continue to crack down on "egregious" violations, such as a 400-person party held in Brookhaven recently.