Cluster of cases in Brooklyn

A “cluster” of coronavirus cases has occurred in southern Brooklyn, the city Health Department said Tuesday, warning of potential spread to other nabes.

Midwood, Borough Park, and Bensonhurst have a 4.71% positive coronavirus rate, according to the Health Department, which called the area “the Ocean Parkway Cluster.”

The rate has also gone up to 3.69% in Edgemere-Far Rockaway, Queens; 2.24% in Kew Gardens, Queens, and 2% in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

From Aug. 1 to Sept. 19, cases tripled in the Ocean Parkway area, Far Rockaway and Williamsburg, the Health Department stated. Cases doubled in Kew Gardens.

The uptick comes as the COVID infection rate for the city has been around 1% and as schools are beginning inperson classes. Mayor de Blasio previously said in-person schooling will be canceled if the infection rate for the entire city reaches 3%.

“These increases could potentially evolve into more widespread community transmission and spread to other neighborhoods unless action is taken,” the Health Department stated in an email. “We are monitoring the situation for the need to take further steps in these areas.”

The department reiterated previous guidance on battling COVID, including avoiding large indoor gatherings and use of face coverings.

Discussing neighborhoods undergoing increases in cases, de Blasio said earlier Tuesday, “We need to apply a lot of energy and focus to these areas.

“You’re going to see a lot of activity in the community to remind people of the basics, how important it is and what we call the core four … wear a mask, socially distance, wash your hands, and stay home if you’re sick,” he added.