NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Amid concerns over New York City's COVID-19 daily positivity rate doubling in three days, Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Thursday that the city will distribute 500,000 rapid tests and 1 million face masks for free.
"We have seen a very substantial increase in COVID cases in the last few days," de Blasio said during an afternoon news conference. "It is clear that the omicron variant is here in New York City in full force ... We need to be very aggressive."
De Blasio stressed the need for getting vaccinated and booster shoots "right now" ahead of the holidays and detailed a six-pronged plan to combat an omircon surge.
• Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi will issue a new health advisory to ensure guidance on New Yorkers' safety.
• Increase testing capacity at mobile sites in the five boroughs and double down on brick-and-mortar sites with new fixed sites and expanded hours of operation.
• Distributing 1 million KN95 masks through community-based organizations.
• Distributing 500,000 rapid at-home tests through community-based organizations.
• Double-down on booster shots with an "aggressive" paid media campaign.
• Increase inspections to enforce current COVID-19 mandates implemented throughout the city.
"Here's the bottom line. We've got to stop this variant. We have got to stop this COVID. We have got to continue our recovery," de Blasio said.
Chokshi's updated guidance urges New Yorkers to wear masks indoors, to get vaccinated and tested. It also provides warnings ahead of the holiday season.
"This holiday season all New Yorkers should consider outdoor activities and gatherings," the guidance reads. "Older adults or those that have a health condition that increases their risk of COVID-19 should avoid crowded settings, particularly indoors."
Chokshi said on Thursday that the data is showing "an alarming trend."
"The data that we monitor so closely is showing an alarming trend. Omicron is here in New York City and it is spreading quickly,” he said. "I do expect cases will continue to increase in the coming days."
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