Albany County confirms four new COVID-19 deaths

Albany County Executive Daniel McCoy confirmed four new deaths attributed to COVID-19 on Monday morning. The deaths were comprised of a woman in her 50s, two women in their 80s, and a woman in her 90s. The county has seen 254 recorded deaths since tracking of the pandemic began last March.

McCoy also noted 216 new positive cases. Encompassed within in the new cases were 174 presently without a clear source of infection, 34 who had close contact with positive cases, and eight are healthcare workers or residents of congregate settings.

Currently, there are 1,997 active cases in the county, and 3,119 people under mandatory quarantine. Conversely, 265 people were cleared for recovery and release.

McCoy also reported that there were 13 new hospitalizations overnight, and there are 148 county residents currently hospitalized from the virus. In addition, there are nine patients in the ICU.

The county executive also remarked on the start of vaccinations for those designated populations who fall under the 1b group phase of the rollout.

“As we work to control the spread of COVID-19, we continue to make progress on vaccine distribution, with the 1b phase of distribution able to start today. Those who are over the age of 75 years old and additional essential workers should use the State Department of Health website and hotline to check their eligibility and sign up,” McCoy stated.

Yet, McCoy also cautioned that the virus remains prominently dangerous in the community and that people need to take precautions to stay safe and healthy.

“And while this is exciting news, we still likely have at least another six months until we can reach her immunity with the vaccine. Until then, we need everyone to wear a mask, socially distance, get tested and stay home as much as possible,” McCoy added.

Residents who are included in the 1b category of vaccine distribution should use the State Department of Health website or call 1-833- 697- 4829 to check their eligibility and register to receive the vaccine.

The County Department of Health is not currently available for registration and everyone will be notified when it is. The public is encouraged to be patient as the sign0up process could become overloaded.