Hospitalizations continue decline in WNY and statewide

NYS COVID-19 testing site in Buffalo's Cobblestone District. May 19, 2020 (WBEN Photo/Mike Baggerman)
Photo credit NYS COVID-19 testing site in Buffalo's Cobblestone District. May 19, 2020 (WBEN Photo/Mike Baggerman)

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - Churches are allowed to return to 25 percent capacity this weekend as New York State continues to see an overall decline in hospitalizations.

Statewide, there are 2,371 people hospitalized, which is the fewest it has been since the pandemic began.

In Western New York, there are 112 people who are in the hospital with coronavirus. This is the fewest number of people hospitalized since March 30.

The Western region currently meets all the necessary metrics in order to reach the next phase of reopening. Phase three of reopening could begin as early as June 16. This phase allows for bars and restaurants to reopen for indoor seating.

Erie County

Erie County has 6,458 positive cases of coronavirus since the pandemic began in mid-March. The virus has killed 560 people in Erie County. There are currently 103 people who remain in the hospital, including 17 who require a ventilator.

Niagara County

Niagara County reports 27 new coronavirus cases over the weekend. There have been 1,150 confirmed coronavirus cases in the county.