Ulster County reaches ‘high’ COVID level

KINGSTON — Ulster County has joined other Hudson Valley counties after the CDC updated its COVID-19 community transmission level to high last week.

The increase in COVID-19 cases is attributed to the virus’ newest subvariant, XBB 1.5, according to a statement from Dr. Carol Smith, Ulster County commissioner of health.

Known as the “kraken” subvariant, XBB 1.5 is believed to be significantly more transmissible — making up about half the COVID-19 cases in the state.

“I would like to remind Ulster County residents of the precautions they can take to protect themselves and their families: consider wearing a mask when indoors, maintain good ventilation and airflow in indoor spaces, test as soon as COVID symptoms are suspected, stay home when sick, and follow the CDC’s recommendations for what to do if you are exposed to someone with COVID-19,” Smith said in the statement.

Smith added residents should stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations and booster doses, noting the county health department holds vaccine clinics for ages five and up at the former Best Buy at the Hudson Valley Mall in Kingston. She also directed residents to visit the county’s main page on COVID -19.

Columbia, Greene, Sullivan, Dutchess, Rockland, Putnam and Westchester counties all currently have high transmission levels, according to the CDC.

Albany and Rensselaer counties currently have medium transmission levels.

Schenectady, Saratoga, Washington, Warren, Hamilton, Fulton, Montgomery, Schoharie and Delaware counties currently have low levels.

The levels were calculated Thursday.