Even before more than a thousand protesters convened major cities including Buffalo, families and friends gathered en masse as far back as May 25 for Memorial Day celebrations. Officials in Erie County were worried about groups of more than ten people convening at once could lead to an increase in coronavirus cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Despite the data not showing any fallout from gatherings yet, officials are steadfast that there should not be a reopening sooner.
Dr. Joseph Chow, President of Western New York Immediate Care, echoed Poloncarz’ comments that other states have had problems with reopening too quickly.
“As much as I’d like to say ‘hey, fantastic!’ and the stats look favorable, I certainly wouldn’t say we’re out of the woods at this point,” Chow said.
He said social distancing and wearing masks has helped to lower the numbers across the state and acknowledged there will be some bursts of new cases in areas as the state continues reopening.
Chow said the next two weeks will give experts a better indication as to how to proceed.
Bars and restaurants are eligible to reopen in Western New York as early as June 16. Governor Andrew Cuomo announced last Wednesday that bars and restaurants could open outdoor seating. Phase four, which allows for the reopening of entertainment venues, could began as early as June 30.
A vaccine is not expected until the end of this year or 2021. Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein said it’s likely we will still need to wear masks until a vaccine is widely available. She also shared modeling from the University at Buffalo that showed a flattening of the curve if 75 percent of the public wears a mask in the public.