Dear Neighbor,

I hope that you are enjoying the Spring season and taking advantage of the milder temperatures to get out and enjoy the blooming flowers and trees. In Albany, my colleagues in the State Legislature and I are working hard on finalizing legislative matters as we near the end of the Legislative session. Part of that work has involved looking at ways that we can fortify abortion rights and access in New York.

Abortion Rights in Extreme Jeopardy

On May 2, Politico reported on a leaked U.S. Supreme Court draft opinion indicating a majority of justices may vote to overturn Roe v. Wade. This outcome is not definite nor final; however, it was heavy news to hear for individuals who have fought so hard for a woman’s right to autonomy over her body, for equality, and the right to access comprehensive reproductive health care. I am proud to say that New York is committed to providing abortion services to New Yorkers and refugees from other states who seek care. I would like to thank Governor Hochul for approving a $35 million investment to support abortion providers in New York. Please click here to view the virtual press conference. If you are looking for an opportunity to stand up for reproductive rights and have your voice heard, a rally is being held on Saturday, May 14 in New York City. Please click here for additional information.

Before shifting to COVID-19 updates, I also want to share information about pediatric cases of acute hepatitis of unknown origin that have been reported in Europe and the U.S.

Pediatric Cases of Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Origin

As you may have heard, public health authorities in Europe and the U.S. have reported outbreaks of severe hepatitis of unknown origin in young children. In the U.S., at least 109 cases are being investigated in 25 states and territories, including New York. A majority of the children were hospitalized, a number of children have required a liver transplant, and sadly, 5 children have died. The CDC has sent a public health advisory to health care providers to ensure they are aware and report possible cases. As you can see, the number of nationwide cases is small so at this point, however, it is helpful to be aware of hepatitis symptoms, which include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and joint pain. Additional symptoms that may present later on include dark urine, light-colored stools, and jaundice. For additional details, please see the following CNBC article. If you are uncertain about symptoms your child is experiencing, please speak with your child’s Pediatrician.

Please see immediately below for:

· COVID-19 & Omicron Updates;

· COVID-19 Vaccine Updates

· COVID-19 Policy & Guidance Updates;

· COVID-19 Treatment;

· COVID-19 Testing Updates;

· Community Announcements, Meeting Opportunities, and Resources;

· Senator Krueger’s Virtual Event Updates; and

· COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: Vaccination Scheduling, Vaccine Site, and Vaccine Eligibility Information.

A variety of useful City, State, and Federal updates are provided further below in the email.

COVID-19 & Omicron Updates

As of Monday, May 2, New York City’s COVID-19 Alert level increased to “yellow/medium” due to the Citywide case rate rising above 200 new cases per 100,000 people in the preceding 7 days. Our COVID-19 case rate continues to increase throughout the City, which is due in part to recent holiday gatherings and travel, and there has also been a slight increase in hospitalizations.

On May 9, 6,575 people tested positive for COVID-19 in NYS and 2,216 individuals tested positive in NYC. The statewide 7-day average of cases per 100K was 47.96. The highest 7-day average was 62.43 in Western NY and the average in NYC was 43.88. According to NYS hospitalization data, as of May 9, there were 2,369 people hospitalized statewide due to COVID-19, with 217 individuals in the ICU. In NYC, there were 636 Coronavirus patients hospitalized, with 68 individuals in the ICU.

According to NYS COVID-19 variant data, the Omicron BA.1.1 sub-variant is causing .9% of cases, BA.2 and BA.2.12 are causing 54.9% of cases, and BA.2.12.1 is causing 43.2% of cases. The newest sub-variant, BA.2.12.1, is approximately 27% more contagious than BA.2 and is rapidly spreading throughout the U.S. BA.2.12.1 has not been found to cause more severe health outcomes to date. According to outbreak.info, BA.2 has been found in at least 118 countries and in all U.S. states.

Now that NYC is at a yellow/medium COVID-19 alert level, it is especially important to follow the safety measures that we know help to manage Coronavirus case rates and protect public health: stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations; wear a mask in public indoor settings, regardless of vaccination status; hold social gatherings outside as much as possible; get tested before and after travel/gatherings, if you experience symptoms, and if you are exposed to someone who has the Coronavirus; stay home if you are sick; and if you test positive for COVID-19, speak with your health care provider to see if you are eligible for treatment.

As a friendly reminder, it is necessary to start COVID-19 treatment, if eligible, within a short window of time after contracting the Coronavirus. Please make sure to get tested at your earliest convenience if you develop symptoms or are exposed.

COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: Moderna Requests Authorization of COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Under Age 6; FDA Limits the Authorized Use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine

· Moderna Requests Authorization of COVID-19 Vaccine for Children Under Age 6: On April 28, Moderna announced that it had asked the FDA for emergency use authorization of its vaccine for use with children under the age of 6. As reported by the New York Times, Moderna anticipated that data would be provided in full by May 9. On April 29, the FDA announced that June 8, 21, and 22 have been reserved for the FDA Advisory Council to discuss authorizing the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines for younger children; however, the FDA indicated that Moderna’s data will be reviewed in June whether or not Pfizer has submitted its data. I will provide updates as new information becomes available.

· FDA Limits the Authorized Use of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 Vaccine: As of May 5, the FDA limited the authorized use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine to individuals age 18+ who are unable to access other COVID-19 vaccines, or for whom other vaccines are not clinically appropriate, as well as to individuals age 18+ who choose to receive the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine out of necessity to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus. Click here to view the FDA press release. The FDA decision does not impact access to COVID-19 vaccinations, as most City-run and private vaccine sites administer the Moderna and/or Pfizer vaccine. Furthermore, the CDC had previously issued the recommendation that individuals get the Moderna or Pfizer booster shot, even if they received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine for their initial vaccine series.

COVID-19 Policy & Guidance Updates: Current Mask Requirements

· Current Mask Requirements: As you are likely aware, on April 18, U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle struck down the CDC mask mandate on airplanes and other modes of public transportation, including trains, buses, and subways. Shortly afterwards, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an appeal of the ruling due to the CDC assessment that mask wearing continues to be essential to protecting public health. In the meantime, the federal mask mandate has ceased to be enforced; however, the New York State mask mandate remains in effect. The State mandate requires mask wearing on public transportation, including taxis and for-hire vehicles; in health care settings; in Adult Care Facilities; in correctional facilities and detention centers; and in homeless and other shelters. See the Commissioner’s Determination on Masking in Certain Indoor Settings for additional details. Furthermore, the CDC has continued to urge mask wearing on airplanes and other forms of public transportation, and issued a media statement on May 3, detailing the CDC Recommendation for Masks and Travel.

Mask wearing continues to be an essential safety measure, as well as part of the layered approach to managing COVID-19 case rates, protecting public health, and preventing our health care systems from becoming overwhelmed; especially while children under age 5 are unable to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus, global vaccination rates remain low, and we continue to face highly contagious variants with the potential for additional surges. Although we are all ready for the pandemic to be over, it is not, and if we act as though it is, the pandemic will only last longer. Please remember to wear a high-quality mask (kf94, kn95, or n95) or a double mask for sufficient protection against the highly contagious variants that are circulating in the region.

COVID-19 Treatment

As mentioned above, our hospitalization and fatality rates have not increased to date, which the NYC Health Department attributes to the COVID-19 vaccines and treatment. The best way to prevent getting COVID-19 and Long COVID is to get vaccinated and follow the other core safety measures. However, COVID-19 treatments are also important, as they provide life-saving treatment for people who contract the Coronavirus and are at higher risk of severe illness. I want to make sure that you know how to access COVID-19 treatment and who is eligible.

· Eligibility for COVID-19 Treatment: At this time, individuals who are age 65+ or who have a pre-existing condition that puts them at higher risk of severe illness, and who have tested positive for the Coronavirus are eligible for COVID-19 treatment. If you are not sure about your eligibility, speak with your health care provider.

· How to Access COVID-19 Treatment: Treatment for the Coronavirus can be commenced within 5-10 days of developing mild-moderate symptoms, and therefore, it is critical to get tested right away if you have symptoms or were recently exposed. If you have tested positive for COVID-19, you should do the following:

1. Speak with your primary care provider to discuss your eligibility for COVID-19 treatment. If you do not have a primary care provider, or if you are uninsured, you can call 212-268-4319 and press option 9 to reach the NYC Health + Hospitals emergency telehealth service. You will have intake with a nurse and then speak with a clinician to determine eligibility. Please keep in mind that this phone number is for people who do not have a primary care provider or who are uninsured.

2. If you are approved for treatment, the doctor will call in a prescription for Paxlovid, or you will go to a treatment site for the Monoclonal Antibody Treatment.

Ø Paxlovid is an antiviral pill treatment that involves taking the pills multiple times a day for 6 days. This form of treatment is for people age 12+ who:

o Have tested positive for COVID-19,

o Have had mild-moderate symptoms for 5 days or less, and

o Are at high risk for severe illness, as defined by the CDC

Ø Monoclonal Antibody Treatment is a one-time IV antibody infusion treatment for people age 12+ who:

o Have tested positive for COVID-19,

o Have had mild-moderate symptoms for 10 days or less, and

o Are at high risk for severe illness, as defined by the CDC

Please Note: Prescriptions for Paxlovid can be called in to Alto Pharmacy, which delivers the medication to your home, or to a variety of pharmacies in the community which now have Paxlovid in stock. You can ask the doctor to check if your local pharmacy carries Paxlovid if that is your preference.

If your prescription is called in to Alto Pharmacy, please be aware that Alto will call and/or text you in order to arrange for delivery of the Paxlovid. You must answer the call or text before Alto will deliver the medication.

For additional details, please see the NYC Health Department’s COVID-19 Treatment Info Sheet.

COVID-19 Testing Updates: COVID-19 Testing in the Community at City- and Privately-Run Testing Sites

Testing is a valuable tool that we have to determine positivity for the Coronavirus and to interrupt the chain of transmission.

New York City has a variety of testing options available, including City- and privately-run testing sites, and at-home testing, where a trained clinician comes to your home and administers a PCR test. Please see the resources below to learn more about these testing options and other helpful information.

· City-Run Testing Sites and At-Home COVID-19 Testing:

Ø NYC Health + Hospitals offers free (no out-of-pocket costs) rapid and PCR testing at a variety of COVID-19 testing sites, including hospitals, health centers, and pop-up locations, throughout the five boroughs. Click here to find a testing site.. No appointment is required, however, some sites do allow you to pre-register for your visit to streamline the check-in process. Free testing is available whether or not you are symptomatic, and whether or not you have health insurance. If you have health insurance, please bring your insurance card.

Please note: If you are going to an NYC Health + Hospital testing site, you can check testing wait times before you go to get tested.

Ø Request At-Home COVID-19 Diagnostic Testing: The NYC Test & Trace Corps offers at-home testing for COVID-19 to all immunocompromised New Yorkers and older adults age 65+. If you need to get tested, and are concerned about risk of exposure, or are unable to leave your home, appointments for at-home testing are available seven days per week, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Schedule an appointment by calling 929-298-9400. You will receive a molecular PCR test administered by a trained clinician in your home at no cost.

· Privately-Run Testing Sites:

Ø Use this search tool to find additional testing sites, including urgent care centers, pharmacies, and labs, by providing an address, zip code, or city. Note: some of these test sites do not offer testing to people who are asymptomatic or under a certain age, and there may be out-of-pocket costs. If you are concerned about potential out-of-pocket costs for diagnostic testing, please make sure to ask in advance what the charges will be.

Community Announcements, Meetings, Opportunities, and Resources: Affordable Connectivity Program; Do More, Feel Better – A Community Program Against Depression; Update for ERAP Applicants; Search and Care – Can’t Find Home Care? Why a Case for Fair Pay in NYS, Tuesday, May 24; Equitable Relief – Medicare Enrollment/Disenrollment; Social Security Administration – In-Person Appointments; NYC Department of Small Business Services Brief Survey Regarding Financial Assistance for Your Business

I would like to highlight the following community meetings, opportunities, and resources:

· Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP): The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently launched the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) to reduce the cost of getting online. The ACP provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 toward purchasing a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers. To qualify for this one-time discount, households must contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price. Any household with an individual who receives Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is eligible to receive discounted internet service through the ACP. Social Security doesn’t count ACP assistance as income or a resource for SSI purposes. Receipt of this assistance will not affect a person’s SSI payment. Please read the blog article for additional information.

· Do More, Feel Better – A Community Program Against Depression: People 60+ experiencing depression can enroll in a nine-week research program to explore how increasing participation in pleasurable and rewarding activities can lead to improvement in depressive symptoms. The program is conducted by Weill Cornell Medicine, and individual sessions will be completed via telephone or video chat. If you are eligible to participate, you will receive compensation over the course of the program. For more information, contact Kiana, Caroline, or the study team at 844-333-3579 ext. 720 / ext. 714 or [email protected].

· Update for ERAP Applicants: The Office of Temporary Disability Assistance (OTDA) has informed my office that the 2022-2023 State budget includes additional funds to support the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). Previously, OTDA anticipated funding applications that were submitted through October 7, 2021. Due to the additional funding, OTDA is processing eligible ERAP applications that were submitted through March 31, 2022.

· Search and Care – Can’t Find Home Care? Why a Case for Fair Pay in NYS, Tuesday, May 24, 9:30 – 10:30 a.m.: The high turnover and difficulty attracting new home care workers is driven by low wages and unstable work. Join Search and Care for a discussion of the topic at hand. This event will be held over Zoom. Call-in: 646-876-9923; Meeting ID: 832 4882 2134. Register at: tinyurl.com/FairPayforHomeCare.

· Equitable Relief – Medicare Enrollment/Disenrollment: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services is providing equitable relief to individuals who could not submit premium-Part A or Part B enrollment or disenrollment requests timely due to challenges contacting the Social Security Administration by phone. This relief applies to the 2022 General Enrollment Period, Initial Enrollment Period, and Special Enrollment Period.

If you were unable to enroll or disenroll in Medicare because you could not reach the Social Security Administration (SSA) by phone after January 1, 2022, you will be granted additional time, through December 30, 2022. For more information, call 1-800-772-1213 or use the SSA Office Locator to find the number for a local office.

· Social Security Administration – In-Person Appointments and In-Person Service: The Social Security Administration (SSA) is offering more in-person appointments at local Social Security offices, and has resumed in-person service for individuals without an appointment (please confirm in advance whether your Social Security office is offering in-person service without an appointment). The SSA continues to encourage New Yorkers to go online for information, call for assistance (800-772-1213), and schedule appointments in advance.

Please visit the SSA webpage How to Get Help from Social Security to learn:

o The best ways to get help from Social Security.

o What you should know before you visit a Social Security office, so we can help you safely.

o Innovative options that could help you have your hearing sooner if you are appealing a decision.

· NYC Department of Small Business Services Brief Survey Regarding Financial Assistance for Your Business: The City's Department of Small Business Services needs to hear from you in order to inform and refine its financial assistance programs for small businesses. Please take five minutes to complete their survey, which asks about your business’s experience and interest in financing assistance. It's critical! Take The Survey

Senator Krueger’s Virtual Event Updates: Recording of Senator Krueger’s April 28 Roundtable Session for Boomers and Seniors; Virtual Roundtable for Boomers and Seniors, Session VIII, “Reframing Aging: Building an Age Friendly City,” Thursday, May 19, 10 – 11:30 a.m.

· Session VII of Senator Krueger’s 2022 Virtual Roundtable for Boomers and Seniors, “Technology Can Work for You,” April 28: If you were unable to attend this session, you can view the recording here.

· Virtual Roundtable for Boomers and Seniors, Session VIII, “Reframing Aging: Building an Age Friendly City,” Thursday, May 19, 10 – 11:30 a.m.: On Thursday, May 19th, I will host the final session of this year's Virtual Roundtable for Boomers and Seniors. At this event we will learn the importance of viewing aging in a positive frame and how you can work to make your neighborhood more age friendly, and find out about key policies in New York City that still need to be addressed to support us as we age. Please let us know if you plan to attend the Thursday, May 19th Virtual Roundtable by registering at https://tinyurl.com/seniorroundtable5-19-22.

COVID-19 Vaccine Updates: Vaccination Scheduling, Vaccine Site, and Vaccine Eligibility Information

Regardless of which phase of the pandemic we are currently navigating, it is always the right time to get the vaccine and booster shot. If you have any questions or concerns about getting vaccinated, please speak with your health care provider or call 311.

Vaccination Scheduling Resources

· NYC COVID-19 and Flu Vaccine Finder: Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule Online: https://vaccinefinder.nyc.gov/

· City-run vaccine sites: Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule Online: vax4nyc.nyc.gov (click “schedule third dose” to schedule a Pfizer booster shot)

· NYC Health + Hospitals vaccine sites: Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule Online: https://covid19.nychealthandhospitals.org/UnaffiliatedHealthCareWorkers

· State-run vaccine sites: Call 833-697-4829 or Schedule Online: https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/

· Local and Nationwide vaccine sites: https://www.vaccines.gov/search/

· CVS Pharmacy: Call 800-746-7287 or Schedule Online

· Rite Aid Pharmacy: Call 800-748-3243 or Schedule Online

· Walgreens Pharmacy: Call 800-925-4733 or Schedule Online

Vaccine Site Resources

· Update - American Museum of Natural History vaccine site: March 31 was the last day that the Museum served as an NYC COVID-19 vaccine site. The vaccination incentive is no longer available.

· MTA Vaccine Pop-Up Sites at Times Square – 42 Street (7^th Avenue) and Grand Central Terminal: Individuals age 18+ can come to either location for a Moderna vaccination (1^st or 2^nd dose, or a booster shot). No appointment is needed. Once you are at the station, follow the signs directing you to the pop-up spot. The two locations are:

Times Square–42 Street (passageway between the 1, 2, 3, and S trains), Monday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Grand Central Terminal, Monday – Sunday, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m.

· City-run walk-up vaccination sites, and NYC mobile vaccine vans and buses: https://www1.nyc.gov/site/coronavirus/vaccines/covid-19-vaccines.page#walk-up-sites. I encourage you to visit the NYC Vaccine Tool if you have not done so recently. The website has been updated with additional functionality to make it easier for New Yorkers to find vaccine sites that offer walk-up vaccinations and specific vaccines: vaccinefinder.nyc.gov.

· NYC In-Home Vaccination Program Expansion: The In-Home Vaccination Program has been further expanded to include all NYC residents who are age 12 or above. Now you can get vaccinated without having to leave your home. To express interest in an in-home vaccination, please fill out this form: https://forms.cityofnewyork.us/f/home or call 877-829-4692. Please note: Even if you received your first or second dose at a community vaccine site, you can still get any additional doses that you are eligible for at home, including booster shots.

Vaccine Eligibility Information

At this time, the following individuals are eligible to get vaccinated:

Initial Vaccination Series

Þ All children age 5-11 are eligible for the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination.

COVID-19 Vaccines for Children FAQs
For parents looking for more information on the vaccine for 5-11 year-olds you can watch this recent conversation between DOHMH and DOE here.

Þ All individuals age 12+ are approved to get vaccinated. Individuals age 12-17 are only authorized to receive the Pfizer vaccination. Individuals age 18+ are authorized to receive the Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson vaccine, however, the CDC and NYC Health Department prefer that they get the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

Additional Vaccine Doses for People who Are Immunocompromised

Þ Eligible immunocompromised individuals age 5+ are authorized to get a third dose of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine. Please click here to view the NYC Health Department guidance for more information.

First Booster Shots

Þ Fully-vaccinated 12-17-year-olds who received their second Pfizer vaccine dose at least 5 months ago are approved to receive their first Pfizer booster shot.

Þ Individuals age 18+ who received their second Pfizer or Moderna vaccine dose at least 5 months ago are approved to receive a Pfizer, Moderna, or Johnson & Johnson booster shot, however, the CDC and NYC Health Department prefer that they get the Moderna or Pfizer booster shot.

Þ Individuals age 18+ who received a Johnson & Johnson vaccination at least 2 months ago are approved to receive a Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, or Pfizer booster shot, however, the CDC and NYC Health Department prefer that they get the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine.

Second Booster Shots

The following individuals are eligible for a second booster shot with the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine if they received their first booster shot at least 4 months ago:

Þ All people age 50+.

Þ People age 12-49 who are moderately or severely immunocompromised.

Þ People age 18-49 who received their initial vaccination series and first booster shot with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Stay safe and healthy. As always, if you have any questions or need assistance, please email or call my office at [email protected] or 212-490-9535. If you need assistance with an unemployment issue, please follow this link to complete an unemployment intake web form so that my office can provide assistance: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfF5eMgY_Jrjh_1_qXlx0ri7coPS01j4GvWJ4Lu7mpWTG2kNQ/viewform.

Safety Practices to Protect Yourself and Others from Contracting COVID-19:

Wear a face covering as required by law or regulations, in public indoor settings.
Maintain social distance as required based on your health condition and comfort level.
Wash your hands regularly with soap and water or with hand sanitizer.
If you are not feeling well or test positive for COVID-19, please wear a mask and stay home.

If you are unvaccinated, continue to practice COVID-19 safety guidelines to protect your health and wellbeing, as well as that of your loved ones and community members.

Best,

Liz Krueger

State Senator

Contents:

· Most Recent Updates

· COVID-19 Resources

· COVID-19 Vaccine Information

· COVID-19 – Containment / Safety Measures / Data / Research

· Online & In-Person Meetings, Town Halls, and Webinars

· Physical and Mental Health Care/Health Insurance/Public Health/Research

· Food

· Housing Support and Services

· Education/NYC Public Schools/CUNY/SUNY/Libraries/Student Loans

· MTA/Transportation

· Jobs, Job Training, Residencies, Internships, Fellowships

· Social Services

· Grants & Scholarships

· Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers

· Resources for Small Businesses & Non-Profits

· In-Person & Virtual Community Activities

Updates as of Wednesday Afternoon, 5/11/22:

CDC Updates

· Long COVID or Post-COVID Conditions

· Post-COVID Conditions: CDC Science

· Wearing Masks in Travel and Public Transportation Settings

· CDC Recommendation for Masks and Travel

· What You Need to Know About Variants

· CDC Media Telebriefing: Update on Acute Hepatitis of Unknown Cause

CDC Reports

· Effectiveness of a COVID-19 Additional Primary or Booster Vaccine Dose in Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection Among Nursing Home Residents During Widespread Circulation of the Omicron Variant — United States, February 14–March 27, 2022

· Acute Hepatitis and Adenovirus Infection Among Children — Alabama, October 2021−February 2022

FDA Updates

· May 3: FDA Roundup including information about counterfeit versions of certain at-home over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 diagnostic tests being distributed or used in the United States

· April 29: FDA Roundup including an update to the page At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests, to include expiration date information to help consumers find the current expiration date for any FDA authorized at-home OTC COVID-19 diagnostic test

· April 29: New web page: Counterfeit At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests

· April 29: FDA Announces Tentative Advisory Committee Meeting Schedule Regarding COVID- 19 Vaccines

· FAQs: What happens to EUAs when a public health emergency ends? Visit our website for answers to frequently asked questions about what happens to EUAs, and products available under EUA, when a public health emergency ends.

State Updates

· As of Wednesday, May 11th, the statewide number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in New York State was 5,238,224. As of 2:30 p.m., the number of positive cases in NYC was 2,055,017. Please visit the New York State Health Department COVID-19 data page and the New York City Health Department COVID-19 data page to view additional demographic information about how the outbreak is affecting New York State and New York City.

We have lost 55,672 New Yorkers, including 34,746 residents of New York City. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family members and loved ones of the deceased.

· May 11: Governor Kathy Hochul today updated New Yorkers on the state's progress combating COVID-19.

Today's data is summarized briefly below:

o Cases Per 100k - 51.62

o 7-Day Average Cases Per 100k - 48.66

o Test Results Reported - 109,960

o Total Positive - 10,087

o Percent Positive - 9.02%

o 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 7.18%

o Patient Hospitalization - 2,358 (-11)

o Patients Newly Admitted - 445

o Patients in ICU - 222 (+5)

o Patients in ICU with Intubation - 94 (+3)

o Total Discharges - 299,944 (415)

o New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 21

o Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 55,672

o Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC - 71,068

This daily COVID-19 provisional death certificate data reported by NYS DOH and NYC to the CDC includes those who died in any location, including hospitals, nursing homes, adult care facilities, at home, in hospice and other settings.

o Total vaccine doses administered - 38,563,494

o Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours - 25,747

o Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days - 148,730

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose - 92.5%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series - 83.8%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 95.0%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 87.1%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 83.2%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 73.2%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose - 82.0%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series - 74.2%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC) - 90.3%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC) - 77.1%

Each region's 7-day average of cases per 100K population is as follows:

REGION	Sunday, May 8, 2022	Monday, May 9, 2022	Tuesday, May 10, 2022
Capital Region	54.87	55.00	55.39
Central New York	43.27	42.72	40.80
Finger Lakes	43.34	43.90	42.60
Long Island	53.10	54.76	56.26
Mid-Hudson	45.24	45.93	47.27
Mohawk Valley	50.66	51.57	50.25
New York City	44.47	43.88	44.99
North Country	36.96	37.75	39.04
Southern Tier	52.15	53.64	53.84
Western New York	61.21	62.43	61.99
Statewide	47.70	47.96	48.66

City Updates

· Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month: May is Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Your home is here. The City will fight to ensure all New Yorkers feel safe, protected, and empowered. Hate has no place here.

If you have faced harassment or discrimination in housing, at work, or in any public place, contact the NYC Commission on Human Rights by filling out their online form or by calling 212-416-0197. If you are a victim of or witness a hate crime, call 911. There is language support if you need interpretation services.

· NYC Speaks Unveils Results of Largest Public Policy Survey in NYC History: 62,000 New Yorkers responded on topics including public safety, housing, transit, mental health, broadband, workforce policy, child care and climate change. Findings and community engagement events will culminate in Action Plan to inform Adams administration, city policy. Full results of the survey are available on the NYC Speaks Dashboard at nycspeaks.org/data, where data points can be viewed by income, race, gender and more.

Community Conversations: Have thoughts or questions about the NYC Speaks survey results? Want to discuss critical local issues with neighbors and community leaders? Register for a Community Conversations event! Register Now

· Got a parking ticket? Has your vehicle been booted? Beware of scams! Protect yourself against fraud. Disregard any notice or advertisement that promises to get you a discount on your parking ticket or boot removal. There are no discounts on parking tickets or boot removals.

Take these steps to protect yourself:

o If you received a parking ticket, pay it at CityPay, or visit the Payments page for more options.

o If your vehicle has been booted, call (646) 517-1000 to make your payment. Visit the Booting page for more information.

o To report suspected fraud, contact the Sheriff’s Office at 718-707-2100 or Contact Us.

· May 9: Mayor Eric Adams, Chancellor Banks Announce Lifting of COVID-19 Vaccine Requirement for Proms

· May 3: Mayor Adams Appoints Anthony Miranda as New York City Sheriff

· May 3: Mayor Adams Appoints Eric Ulrich as Department of Buildings Commissioner; Kazimir Vilenchik, P.E. as First Deputy Commissioner

· May 3: Mayor Adams Appoints Sideya Sherman as Commissioner to Newly-Created Mayor's Office of Equity

City Agency Updates

NYC Department of Sanitation Updates:

· Beginning July 5, Alternate-Side Parking Regulations for street cleaning will be restored to pre-pandemic frequency as posted on the signage throughout the City. Environmental justice begins at the street level, and clean streets are vital to vibrant neighborhoods and NYC’s economic recovery.

Mechanical sweeping is the most cost-effective and efficient means of street cleaning! Mechanical brooms pick up several thousand pounds of litter and debris each day and are key components of a comprehensive public health and environmental justice program. Without this brief period of curb access, litter and debris build up causing a cleanliness problem and polluting our waterways.

· DSNY hosts SAFE Disposal Events: DSNY hosts SAFE Disposal Events (Solvents, Automotive, Flammables, and Electronics) throughout the year in all five boroughs to give residents a location to drop off their harmful household products safely. Make sure to double check that any items you planned to bring cannot be recycled curbside on your scheduled collection day.

The Manhattan SAFE Disposal Event will be held on Sunday, June 5 at Columbia University/Teacher’s College, W. 120 Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. Registration is required. Please visit the SAFE Disposal Event website for more information and to register.

Other Updates

· The NYC Water Board will hold two public hearings via conference call (under state emergency COVID guidelines) on a rate hike of up to 4.9% which would take effect on 7/1/2022:

o Wednesday 5/25, 2 pm: call in (347) 921-5612 Access code 835 020 477#

o Thursday 5/26, 6 pm: call in (347) 921-5612 Access code 941 587 106#

Anyone may attend, but you must register to speak, and submit testimony, by 5:00 pm on the day prior to the day of the hearing. Register by email at [email protected]; by telephone at (718) 595-3594; or by mail: New York City Water Board, 59-17 Junction Boulevard, 8th Floor, Flushing, NY 11373. Oral testimony will be limited to five minutes duration. For additional information about the hearings, as well as information on accessibility options, visit nyc.gov/waterboard.

COVID-19 Resources

COVID-19 Data

· NYC COVID-19 Alert Level System

· NYC Health Department COVID-19 Data

· NYS Health Department COVID-19 Data

· CDC COVID-19 Data

COVID-19 Supplies

· Order free COVID-19 at-home rapid testing kits from the federal government (current maximum is 8 testing kits per household). Order online or call 800-232-0233

· Pick up free COVID-19 at-home rapid tests from City-distribution sites. Click here to see a list of community sites and times when you can pick up a free rapid test kit.

· COVID.gov: a federal website where you can look up information on where to get free masks, as well as COVID-19 vaccinations, treatment, and testing.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information

· COVID-19 Vaccine Boosters: Getting the Facts Straight. The FDA Office of Minority Health and Health Equity (OMHHE) has released a new episode of the Health Equity Forum podcast. During this episode, guest speakers discuss COVID-19 vaccines and boosters misinformation. Click here to listen to the podcast and to view the transcript.

· Why Moderna says its vaccine efficacy in children is better than it seems (ABC News)

· Moderna’s vaccine provoked a strong immune response in children aged 6 to 11, researchers report (NY Times)

COVID-19 – Containment / Safety Measures / Data / Research

· You don’t have to wear a mask on planes. Do it anyway, experts say (Washington Post)

· How to ask a seatmate to mask: The new etiquette for maskless flights (Washington Post)

· Covid hasn’t given up all its secrets. Here are 6 mysteries experts hope to unravel (STAT)

· We Have the Technology to Stop Superspreading Without Masks (NY Times)

Online & In-Person Meetings, Town Halls, and Webinars

· Leadership During Crisis with Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker (D), Thursday, May 12, 4:00 p.m.: Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker (D) has issued an emergency declaration extending COVID-19 restrictions through the end of May after a rise in cases in his state. On Thursday, May 12 at 4:00 p.m. ET, join Washington Post Live for a conversation with the governor about his strategy to combat the pandemic and his pledge to keep abortion legal in Illinois. Register Here

· CB 6 Health & Human Services Committee, Thursday, May 12, 6:30 p.m.: Discussion of the results of the Murray Hill-Kips Bay Community Health Assessment Survey; Presentation by the Department of Social Services Aged, Blind and Disabled program on key health insurance options for seniors and people with a disability; Continued discussion on workplace vaccine requirements; Continued discussion of fiscal year 2024 budget requests. Register Here

· Rat Academy Virtual Training, Monday, May 16, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.: Join this virtual rat academy training, sponsored by NYC Council Member Shaun Abreu, to learn about rat prevention methods. The training is free and is available to everyone. For more information or to request additional accommodation, email [email protected]. Register Here

· CB 6 Housing & Homelessness Committee, Monday, May 16, 6:30 p.m.: Discussion of a proposed resolution in support of a package of social housing bills introduced by Council Member Carlina Rivera, including the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA); Discussion of a proposed resolution in favor of increased public restroom access; Continued discussion of proposed Fiscal Year 2024 budget requests. Register Here

· Health Equity: Vaccines, Tuesday, May 17, 9 a.m.: COVID-19 impacted all Americans regardless of race, class and geography but underscored the long-standing health disparities that preceded and persisted during the pandemic. Join Washington Post Live for a series of conversations about solutions to close the vaccine access gap and how vaccine inequities worldwide have raised the stakes in preparing for future global health crises. Register Here

· CB 8 Full Board Meeting, Public Hearing, Wednesday, May 18, 6:30 PM: Public Session (register to speak by 6:45 p.m.); Public Hearing – 300 East 83rd Street Transit Easement Certification (N 220425 ZCM); Adoption of the Agenda; Adoption of the Minutes; Manhattan Borough President’s Report; Elected Officials’ Reports; Chair’s Report; District Manager's Report. For access to the Zoom meeting, sign in by clicking this link: https://forms.gle/qhJvXW28XUPyNH6A9

· CB 6 Public Safety Committee, Thursday, May 19, 6:30 p.m.: An overview of the work of the New York City Commission on Human Rights; Discussion on qualified immunity for police officers in New York State, which prevents officers from getting sued. Register Here

· CB 8 Social Justice Committee, Monday, May 23, 6:30 p.m.: Erin Mayo-Adam, Director of the Hunter College LGBTQ Policy Center at Roosevelt House, to discuss "Don't Say Gay" bills and other recent legislation to limit LGBTQ rights. For access to the Zoom meeting, sign in by clicking this link: https://forms.gle/yTBGGqBbha3KrRjk8

· CB 8 Health, Seniors and Social Services Committee, Wednesday, May 25, 6:30 p.m.: Updates from New York City Health Department on Covid-19. For access to the Zoom meeting, sign in by clicking this link: https://forms.gle/rF7RPLmdT6i6T4ZA8

· NYC Small Business Services calendar of upcoming information sessions and webinars for small businesses

Physical and Mental Health Care/Health Insurance/Public Health/Research

· NYU Langone Heart Health Lecture Series: Who Is at Risk for a Stroke? Monday, May 16, 5 -6 p.m.: Join NYU Langone neurologist and stroke expert Koto Ishida, MD, and cardiologist Dr. Dennis A. Goodman, MD, to learn how age, genetics, and lifestyle can affect your risk of stroke. Topics to be discussed include the different types of strokes, how to promptly recognize a stroke, how the location of a stroke influences its effects and stroke treatment options.

Food

· Get Food NYC: Visit this online map to find locations that offer free food (food pantries, soup kitchens), as well as grocery stores and farmers’ markets.

Housing Support and Services

· SCRIE/DRIE Programs - Did you know that senior and disabled New Yorkers may be eligible to freeze their rent from future increases? The NYC Rent Freeze Program, which includes the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) Program and the Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) Program, helps those eligible stay in affordable housing by freezing their rent.

To be eligible you must be:

o 62 years old OR 18 years old and disabled

o Be the primary tenant named on the lease/rent order or have been granted succession rights in a rent controlled, rent stabilized or a rent regulated hotel apartment;

o Have a combined household income for all members of the household that is $50,000 or less; and

o Spend more than one-third of your monthly household income on rent.

Visit this link to learn more and to apply.

· Assistance with SCRIE and DRIE Applications: The Mayor’s Public Engagement Unit (PEU) provides assistance to New Yorkers with completing SCRIE and DRIE applications, as well as with renewing their SCRIE or DRIE benefits. For assistance, please call PEU’s Rent Freeze Specialists at 929-252-7242.

· The Tenant Support Unit (TSU): TSU provides free information on tenants’ rights, assistance navigating housing-related issues, and connection to a range of resources. For information on tenants rights and the Right-to-Counsel, call 311 and ask for the “Tenant Helpline,” or visit nyc.gov/TenantSupportUnit.

· The Home Support Unit (HSU): HSU works with rental owners, real estate agents, and property managers to lease vacant units to qualified New Yorkers receiving rental assistance, including voucher holders. HSU helps participating owners navigate the rental process by arranging viewings, assisting with leasing paperwork, and ensuring access to financial incentives for placing qualified tenants into stable housing. To contact the Home Support Unit, visit nyc.gov/HomeSupportUnit.

Education/NYC Public Schools/CUNY/SUNY/Libraries/Student Loans

· Summer Rising Enrollment Update: Summer Rising is a free, safe, and fun summer enrichment program for NYC students in grades K-8. The NYC DOE website indicates that Summer Rising elementary programs are full as of 5/6, however, open seats remain for students in grades 6-8. Apply soon to reserve a spot. Click here to view additional information about the program, locations, and to apply.

MTA/Transportation

· Masks Are Required When Riding Public Transportation: All individuals regardless of vaccination status are required to wear a mask when taking public transportation, including subways, buses, taxis, ride sharing services, trains, and airplanes. This is a federal requirement and an important safety measure to protect yourself, others, and public health.

Jobs, Job Training, Residencies, Internships, Fellowships

· The YMCA Is Hosting In-Person Hiring Events, Saturday, 5/14, 12 - 2 p.m. and Wednesday, 5/18, 5 - 7 p.m.: The YMCA is hosting in-person hiring events throughout Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. Click here for locations and job postings. No appointment is required. Please bring your resume.

· The City Service Corps, an AmeriCorps program operating through the Mayor’s NYC Service office, is recruiting individuals to serve full-time from September 1, 2022 - June 30, 2023 at City agency host sites addressing community-related issues including disaster response, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, veterans & military families. Click here for more information and to apply.

· Theatrical Workforce Development Program: Roundabout Theatre Company is continuing its partnership with the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees to deliver the multi-year paid Theatrical Workforce Development Program. Recruitment for Cohort 5 will begin in May and the program will start in September. Click here for additional information. To learn more about the program and receive an application, you are required to attend an information session. Click here to view information session dates in May and June, and to RSVP.

Social Services

· Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) Emergency Benefits: HEAP helps low-income people pay the cost of heating their homes. As of the week of 5/2, a third Emergency HEAP benefit is available to eligible households that have exhausted the Regular, as well as the first two Emergency HEAP benefits, and who are in a heat or heat related emergency. Please visit the NYS HEAP website for additional information about the program, eligibility criteria, and to apply.

· SNAP Benefits for Undergraduate and Graduate Students: The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) issues electronic benefits that can be used like cash to purchase food. Undergraduate and graduate college students continue to be eligible for SNAP benefits under the COVID-19 public health emergency, which has been extended through July 16, 2022. Students are eligible if they qualify for (but are not necessarily participating in) state or federal work-study, or have an “expected family contribution” of $0. More details about SNAP student eligibility are available on the NYS OTDA SNAP website and the NYC HRA SNAP Benefits website

Grants and Scholarships

· The application deadline for the first Barbara Chocky Memorial Award for Public Service has been extended to Friday 5/27. Student applicants must live within the catchment area of Manhattan Community Board 8 (E. 59^th Street to E. 96^th Street, from Fifth Avenue to the East River, and Roosevelt Island); be in good academic standing at their high school; and submit an application and official transcript by email to: [email protected]. For additional information, please view this Our Town article. Click here to complete the application.

Resources for Older Adults & Caregivers

· Search & Care Pet Pro Workshop, “Take the Torture out of Putting Your Cat in the Carrier,” Saturday, 5/21, 11 a.m.: This online workshop will be held via Zoom and by phone, and is for older adults age 60+. Please RSVP by calling 212-289-5300, x203.

· New York Presbyterian Virtual Events for Older Adults: Visit the NYP events webpage to sign up for a variety of virtual events. Topics include meditation, Belly Dancing, Overcoming the Fear of Falling, and more. Please note that many of their events are free to attend; some events do have a fee, which is indicated in the event description.

· Visiting Nurse Services of New York (VNSNY) Virtual Events: Visit the VNSNY Community Collaborations web page and scroll down to see their calendar of events for older adults, many of which are free to attend.

Resources for Small Businesses and Non-Profits

· NYC Summer Youth Employment Program (SYEP): SYEP is the nation’s largest youth employment program that connects NYC youth ages 14 to 24 with a six-week paid summer work experience. Hiring young people through SYEP supports economic recovery in NYC, allows businesses and organizations to access diverse and local talent, and provides mentorship opportunities – and the City pays for SYEP participant wages. The deadline for your business or organization to host an intern in SYEP is June 6. Click here for more information. Click here to sign up.

· Grow with Google: Google is sponsoring up to 500 free Google Career Certificates in data analytics, project management, design and other online tech skills for any U.S. business. This is an expansion of their Career Certificates program which helps people learn new tools at their own pace. View the Grow with Google website for more information.

In-Person & Virtual Community Activities

· Katharine Hepburn Garden Party, Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, Saturday, May 14, 1 – 3 p.m.: This event, presented by Friends of Dag Hammarskjold Plaza and The Turtle Bay Association, will feature free refreshments, entertainment and friends. Join for live music, guided tours, and some special guests! Click here for additional details.

· Partnership for Parks and NYC Parks Stewardship and Volunteering Opportunities, Wednesday, 5/18, 6 - 7 pm: Partnerships for Parks (PfP) and NYC Parks Stewardship present a webinar that showcases the different stewardship and volunteering opportunities within NYC Parks and PfP. Learn more about leading stewardship projects in parks, natural areas, and on street trees, and pitching in to paint, clean, rake, and care for our city’s park system. Click here to register.

· On Sunday, 5/22, 11 a.m., the Celebrate Israel Parade is returning in person to Fifth Avenue. Click here for parade details.

· Doggie Fashion Show to Promote Kind Words and Kind Acts, Carl Schurz Park, Saturday, June 18, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.: Super Happy Healthy Kids is hosting a doggie fashion show to promote kind words and kind acts. Meet at 84/East End Avenue – Esplanade Gate. Goodie bags will be given out for registered participants. Please register early – registration will not be available at the entrance. No dog? Bring any stuffed animal! The more the merrier for a great cause. A donation of $20/dog or a stuffed animal is required. For questions and to register, please send an email to [email protected] or send a text to 917-369-0032.

· Picnic Performances at Bryant Park: From May 27 through September 17, Picnic Performances will feature 26 live, in-person music, dance, and theater events, starting with a live music-supported production of Rossini’s The Barber of Seville on May 27. Click here to view the performance schedule and additional details.

· Concerts in the Park: The schedule for the New York Philharmonic Concerts in the Parks is now available to view. The first concert in Central Park is scheduled for June 15. All performances start at 8 p.m. except for the indoor performance on Staten Island. Click here for the performance schedule and details.