Putnam's Fight Against The Coronavirus Is Paying Off: Officials

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — Putnam’s vaccination rate continues to rise, its coronavirus positivity rate continues to drop, and residents will soon be able to gather in larger groups, indoors and out — a prospect that pleases county officials.

"With more than half of Putnam’s eligible residents having received at least one dose of their COVID vaccine, we welcome the loosening of state restrictions and the chance to gather again for social occasions,” County Executive MaryEllen Odell said in a news release. "Let’s keep going, Putnam! Our hard work has paid off. Our local case numbers have declined and hospitalizations remain low. The more people who get vaccinated, the sooner we can get life back to normal."

As of Wednesday morning, 63.7 percent of Putnam residents age 18 and up had received at least one dose of vaccine, according to state data.

As of Tuesday, Putnam's rolling 7-day coronavirus test positivity rate was 1.8 percent, according to state data. There were six people hospitalized with COVID-19 at Putnam County Hospital as of April 29, according to the county.

"While new COVID cases have declined most among older residents, we are seeing an increase in the proportion of cases coming from 10- to 19-year-olds," said Putnam County Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD. "Now 16- and 17-year-olds are eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine, and 12 through 15-year-olds will soon be eligible."

As the number of vaccinated residents increases, more restrictions are being lifted. SEE: Major Economic Reopening Planned For New York State.

These changes go into effect May 19:

• No more limitations on outdoor residential gatherings
• Indoor residential gatherings can include up to 50 people
• Outdoor social gathering limit increases to 500
• Indoor social gathering limit increases to 250
• Business capacity limits to be replaced by social distancing limits

A novel virus, a pandemic, development of a vaccine: these are new and unusual experiences for us all, Dr. Nesheiwat said. Trusted sources of information, like healthcare providers, can help undecided adults or parents of children gather the facts and make the informed choice to vaccinate.

"Vaccination has been, and continues to be, a major player in the path forward," he said. "Additionally, all people 18 and older can get either the Moderna or the Johnson and Johnson vaccines."

Keeping the vaccination momentum going can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all, Odell and Nesheiwat said. Click for up-to-date local vaccination information.

SEE ALSO: Fight Disinformation, Take NY's Citizen Public Health Training