NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — More than a week after New York City, Long Island and other Tri-State areas had "substantial" or "high" COVID-19 transmission rates, all five boroughs are now within the "high transmission" window.
While testing and vaccination rates are increasing, data shows cases and hospitalizations are up. However, deaths, in part due to vaccine rates, remain low.
Confirmed and probable cases are up 25% percent compared to a week before and 70% two weeks prior. The delta variant, a cause for concern across the nation, now accounts for 83% of all positive cases within the city.
With metrics heading in the wrong direction, New York City falls within areas where the CDC recommends residents need to take extra precautionary measures — including mask use and social distancing.
To combat these frightening metrics, Mayor Bill de Blasio has implemented incentives to further spurn vaccination rates, including $100 incentives for those who get immunized.
By Sept. 13, proof of vaccinations will also be required to take full advantage of indoor dining, bars, live performances, events, gyms and more.
However, the mayor has suggested their efforts are far from over, describing the delta variant as "dangerous" Thursday.
"That's why New York City is doing some of the most aggressive actions in America," he added. "We are setting the pace on purpose. We are taking bold action for ourselves, but also to help everyone else take bold action."