[image: Inline image 1]









Dear Neighbor,



We are experiencing a different pattern of COVID-19 case trajectories and
infections than what we have faced up to now. Since April of this year, we
have experienced surges in COVID-19 cases caused by the increasingly
contagious Omicron BA.2, BA.2.12.1, and the BA.4/BA.5 subvariants, without
breaks in between. In some cases, New Yorkers are contracting the
Coronavirus, even if they were previously infected by one or more of the
Omicron subvariants. We are very fortunate that the COVID-19 vaccines
continue to provide effective coverage against severe illness,
hospitalization, and death; however, our hospitalization rates have been on
the rise most recently.



In NYC, we are currently at a “High” Alert Level; yet, the NYC COVID-19
Alert Level System is inactive at this time, which would normally focus
more widespread attention on safety measures we should follow to help
prevent contracting the Coronavirus and break the chain of community
transmission. We are all so tired of the pandemic and I have noticed fewer
people following the safety measures that have been crucial from the
beginning. This trend will only serve to prolong the pandemic, and
therefore, I provide a reminder of the safety measures that are recommended
when NYC is at a “High” Alert Level in this email.



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
<[link removed]>
to complete an unemployment intake web form so that my office can provide
assistance.








* 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:*



Please click on the following links to go directly to the specified content
further below in this email. If links do not work properly, you may need to
click “view entire message” at the end of this page.



· COVID-19 Resources <#m_4834321690110804701_link_100>

· New York City COVID-19 Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_101>

· New York State COVID-19 Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_102>

· Federal COVID-19 Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_103>

· COVID-19 Vaccine Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_105>

· COVID-19 Treatment <#m_4834321690110804701_link_106>

· COVID-19 Testing Updates: City and Privately-Run Testing Sites
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_107>

· COVID-19 Vaccination Resources: Vaccination Scheduling, Site, and
Eligibility Information <#m_4834321690110804701_link_108>

· COVID-19 Vaccine, Safety, and Containment Information
<#m_4834321690110804701_link_109>

· Monkeypox Updates <#m_4834321690110804701_link_110>









*COVID-19 Resources*



*COVID-19 Vaccinations*

· NYC Vaccine Finder <[link removed]>: Find
COVID-19 vaccine sites online or call 877-829-4692

· City-Run Vaccine Sites: Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule Online

· NYC Health + Hospitals Vaccine Sites*:* Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule
Online
<[link removed]>

· CVS Pharmacy: Call 800-746-7287 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· Rite Aid Pharmacy: Call 800-748-3243 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· Walgreens Pharmacy: Call 800-925-4733 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>



*COVID-19 Testing*

· Find NYC Health + Hospital Testing Sites
<[link removed]>

· Check the wait time at NYC Health + Hospital Testing Sites
<[link removed]>

· NYC COVID-19 Test Site Finder
<[link removed]>

· Find a COVID-19 Test Site in New York State
<[link removed]>

· Request at-home COVID-19 diagnostic testing (for New Yorkers who
are immunocompromised or age 65+) by calling *929-298-9400*



*COVID-19 Data*

· NYC COVID-19 Alert Level System
<[link removed]>

· NYC Health Department COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>

· NYS Health Department COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>

· CDC COVID-19 Data
<[link removed]>

· Check the transmission level in your neighborhood at: NYC Health
Department COVID-19 data web page
<[link removed]>.
Click “Transmission” and then “Your Neighborhood.”



*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
<[link removed]> 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
<[link removed]>.

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



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*New York City COVID-19 Updates*



NYC is currently experiencing an increase in COVID-19 case and
hospitalization rates, which is driven by the highly contagious Omicron
BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants. There has been a high level of cases in the City
since April, with little reprieve, due to a series of back-to-back surges
caused by the Omicron BA.2, BA.2.12.1, and now the BA.4/BA.5 subvariants.
As a result of the high case and increasing hospitalization rates, the City
is at a “High” Alert Level, as per the CDC Alert Level system.



On July 14, 8,098 people tested positive for COVID-19 in NYS and 4,760
individuals tested positive in NYC. The statewide 7-day average of cases
per 100K was 36.84. The highest 7-day average was 51.09 in NYC. According
to NYS hospitalization data, as of July 14, there were 2,458 people
hospitalized statewide due to COVID-19, with 237 individuals in the ICU. In
NYC, there were 1171 Coronavirus patients hospitalized, with 107
individuals in the ICU. As of July 12, the 7-day average of deaths in NYC,
confirmed and probable, was 6 (however, this figure may be based on
incomplete data).



According to NYS COVID-19 variant data, the Omicron BA.1.1 sub-variant is
causing 0% of cases, an unnamed variant is causing 3% of cases. BA.2 and
BA.2.12 are causing 5% of cases, BA.2.12.1 is causing 27% of cases, BA.4 is
causing 16% of cases, and BA.5 is causing 49% of cases.



At the time of this email, the NYC COVID-19 Alert System website has not
been restored; we can still identify NYC’s current Alert Level, however, as
well as the corresponding safety measures we should follow to help prevent
contracting the Coronavirus and manage our increasing rate of community
transmission and hospitalization. *The CDC website
<[link removed]>
indicates that* *all 5 boroughs are now at a “High” Alert Level*. The NYC
Health Department previously issued the following list of recommended
actions to follow when NYC is at a “High” Alert Level:



Ø *Stay up to date: get vaccinated and boosted.* Getting vaccinated and
boosted is the most effective safety measure we have to prevent severe
illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19, although it is important
to reiterate that staying up to date with vaccinations goes hand in hand
with mask wearing and other safety measures as part of the layered
approach, particularly when NYC is at a “High” Alert Level. Prevention is
crucial vs. relying on COVID-19 treatment; many New Yorkers are struggling
with Long COVID, and we still have much to learn about long-term impacts of
the Coronavirus on the heart and lungs. For maximum protection against
COVID-19, it is necessary to have received the initial vaccine series, as
well as any booster shots for which you are eligible. *To date, 12.1% of
NYC residents are unvaccinated, 8.9% are partially vaccinated, and only
39.2% have received an additional dose or a booster shot*;



Ø *Wear a face mask in all indoor public settings and crowded outdoor
spaces.* Public health experts describe BA.5 as being the most contagious
COVID-19 variant and more contagious than the measles. The risk for virus
transmission is much greater indoors, however, people are contracting the
Coronavirus during outdoor activities as well. Due to the high
transmissibility of BA.4 and BA.5, it is critical to wear a well-fitting
high-quality mask, such as a kf94, kn95, or n95. Your nose and mouth must
be fully covered at all times for effective protection. Masks are still
required on public transportation, in health care facilities, and in other
congregate settings;



Ø *Consider avoiding higher-risk activities (such as crowded, indoor
gatherings).* This is a critical time to carefully evaluate whether to
attend small or large indoor gatherings, as well as outdoor gatherings
where people will be crowded together or gathered in large numbers. When
NYC is at a “High” Alert Level, it is safest to avoid these settings,
especially if you are at risk of severe illness; however, if you
participate in a higher-risk activity, the following actions can help to
reduce risk:

ü Take a COVID-19 at-home rapid test the day of the event before you leave
home, but if you are experiencing symptoms, stay home regardless of the
test result;

ü Wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask during the activity, and limit
removing it as much as possible;

ü Keep some space between yourself and others and go outside if possible;
and

ü Take a COVID-19 at-home rapid test, or a PCR test 2 – 3 days after the
event, if you develop symptoms, or if you learn that you were exposed to
someone with the Coronavirus at the event. You can also take rapid tests
again on days 3, 4, and 5, or if you develop symptoms, to confirm that you
do not have COVID-19. If you test positive, isolate from others, inform
anyone who might have been exposed, and speak to your primary care provider
about eligibility for COVID-19 treatment;



Ø *Limit gatherings to small numbers.* Due to the high transmissibility of
BA.4 and BA.5, this recommendation is prudent to follow whether gatherings
are indoors or outdoors. Smaller numbers allow people to keep more space
between themselves and others, and reduces the risk of transmission. Even
with smaller numbers, it is a good idea to ask attendees to take an at-home
rapid test become coming;



Ø *Get tested if you have symptoms or were exposed, recently traveled, or
attended a large gathering.* When NYC is under a “High” Alert Level,
testing is a particularly important safety measure to help break the chain
of community transmission and to protect those who are vulnerable,
including older adults, people who are unvaccinated, people who are
immunocompromised, pregnant people, and children. The City has community
PCR testing sites, and you can get free at-home tests from the City and
federal government. If you test positive, speak with your primary health
care provider about eligibility for COVID-19 treatment (more information is
provided below);



Ø *Stay home if sick or recently exposed.* This is a particularly tricky
time of year because COVID-19 symptoms can initially resemble cold or
allergy symptoms. Before the pandemic, most of us were used to going to
work and school, and to participating in social activities when we had a
cold or allergies, and even when we felt sick. The pandemic has provided a
different perspective on the importance of staying home when feeling unwell
or when exposed. Our hospitalization and fatality rates are significantly
lower now thanks to the COVID-19 vaccines; however, we still have the
potential to spread the virus to others, which results in prolonging the
pandemic.



Ø *Keep hands clean.* We learned over time that COVID-19 is an airborne
virus, however, that does not make hand washing obsolete. Frequent hand
washing promotes good hygiene and helps to prevent spread that could happen
if, for example, you touch something that has the virus on it and then
touch your eyes.



I understand that many New Yorkers are so tired of dealing with this public
health emergency and just want to resume pre-pandemic life. I can relate to
that feeling. But at this stage of the pandemic, people are still getting
Long COVID, being hospitalized, and dying. If we stop using COVID-19 safety
measures, particularly when at a “High” Alert Level, even more people will
become sick, additional variants will develop, and the pandemic will last
even longer.



The NYC COVID-19 Alert System is a valuable tool because it provides a
system of parameters for increasing and relaxing use of safety measures as
appropriate, which helps us break the chain of community transmission,
shorten the duration of surges, reduce the number of new variants, and
ultimately move us towards transitioning out of pandemic status sooner than
we would otherwise.



As a friendly reminder, the following individuals are currently eligible
for a second Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 booster shot, if they received
their first booster shot at least 4 months ago:

Ø All people age 50+

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

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



I am aware that some New Yorkers are wondering whether to get their second
booster shot now or wait until the fall, when it is anticipated that we
will have updated boosters that are better matched to the Omicron BA.5
subvariant. The NYC Health Department and other public health experts
advise that if you are eligible, you should get the second booster shot
now; you will also be able to get the updated COVID-19 booster shot once it
is available and you are eligible. For additional details, please see the
following UCHealth article
<[link removed]>
.





· *July 12:* Mayor Adams Further Expands City's Network of At-Home
Test Distribution Sites to NYC Parks, Bolstering NYC's COVID-19
Preparedness and Protecting New Yorkers
<[link removed]->



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*New York State COVID-19 Updates*



· As of Sunday, July 17th, the statewide number of confirmed
COVID-19 cases in New York State was 5,679,216. As of 2:30 p.m., the number
of positive cases in NYC was 2,252,202. Please visit the New York State
Health Department COVID-19 data page
<[link removed]>
and the New York City Health Department COVID-19 data page
<[link removed]> to view
additional demographic information about how the outbreak is affecting New
York State and New York City.



We have lost 56,760 New Yorkers, including 35,330 residents of New York
City. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family members and loved ones
of the deceased.



· *July 15: 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 - 41.44

o 7-Day Average Cases Per 100k - 36.84

o Test Results Reported - 88,497

o Total Positive - 8,098

o Percent Positive - 8.53%

o 7-Day Average Percent Positive - 8.99%

o Patient Hospitalization - 2,458 (-2)

o Patients Newly Admitted - 437

o Patients in ICU - 237 (+4)

o Patients in ICU with Intubation - 79 (+9)

o Total Discharges - 320,449 (+416)

o New deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 20

o Total deaths reported by healthcare facilities through HERDS - 56,760



The Health Electronic Response Data System is a NYS DOH data source that
collects confirmed daily death data as reported by hospitals, nursing homes
and adult care facilities only.

o Total deaths reported to and compiled by the CDC - 72,417



This dailyCOVID-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.



NOTE: Vaccine data is now updated weekly on Fridays to align with CDC's
updated data refresh schedule. For additional information on COVID-19
Vaccination Data provided by CDC, see
[link removed].
<[link removed]>

o Total vaccine doses administered- 39,531,669

o Total vaccine doses administered over past 24 hours- 18,490

o Total vaccine doses administered over past 7 days- 91,137

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with at least one vaccine
dose- 92.9%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 18 and older with completed vaccine series-
84.3%

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)- 87.9%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with at least one vaccine dose (CDC)-
84.6%

o Percent of New Yorkers ages 12-17 with completed vaccine series (CDC)-
74.3%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose- 82.6%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series- 74.8%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with at least one vaccine dose (CDC)- 91.3%

o Percent of all New Yorkers with completed vaccine series (CDC)- 77.9%



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



*REGION*

*Tuesday, July 12, 2022*

*Wednesday, July 13, 2022*

*Thursday, July 14, 2022*

Capital Region

18.36

20.30

20.84

Central New York

13.45

13.87

14.52

Finger Lakes

11.46

12.31

12.12

Long Island

44.77

46.44

45.13

Mid-Hudson

32.19

32.15

31.44

Mohawk Valley

12.69

12.57

12.86

New York City

48.09

49.89

51.09

North Country

13.98

15.24

15.45

Southern Tier

14.60

14.15

13.54

Western New York

13.20

14.08

14.39

*Statewide*

*35.28*

*36.54*

*36.84*



· *July 12: *Governor Hochul Announces New COVID-19 Treatment
Public Awareness Campaign to Educate New Yorkers Who Test Positive for
COVID-19
<[link removed]>



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*Federal COVID-19 Updates*



*U.S. Health and Human Services Update*



· *July 15: *Public Health Emergency Renewed
<[link removed]>. On Friday,
July 15, the Secretary of U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,
Xavier Becerra announced that the national Public Health Emergency has been
renewed for another 3 months, through October 13, 2022. For information
about how extending the Public Health Emergency helps the U.S. fight the
Coronavirus, as well as what ending the Public Health Emergency will mean,
please see the following articles:

o Covid-19 public health emergency extended in the US
<[link removed]>

o What Happens When COVID-19 Emergency Declarations End? Implications for
Coverage, Costs, and Access
<[link removed]>





*CDC Updates*



· People Who Are Immunocompromised
<[link removed]>
– If you or someone you live or spend time with is immunocompromised, it is
important to have a COVID-19 plan to protect yourself from infection and
prepare for what to do if you get sick.



· COVID-19 Vaccines for People who are Moderately or Severely
Immunocompromised
<[link removed]>





*CDC Reports*



· Effectiveness of 2, 3, and 4 COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Doses Among
Immunocompetent Adults During Periods when SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 and
BA.2/BA.2.12.1 Sublineages Predominated — VISION Network, 10 States,
December 2021–June 2022
<[link removed]>



· Safety Monitoring of COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine First Booster Doses
Among Persons Aged ≥12 Years with Presumed Immunocompromise Status — United
States, January 12, 2022–March 28, 2022
<[link removed]>



· Factors Associated with Severe Outcomes Among Immunocompromised
Adults Hospitalized for COVID-19 — COVID-NET, 10 States, March
2020–February 2022
<[link removed]>







*FDA Updates*



· *July 8:* FDA Roundup
<[link removed]>
including FDA approval of COMIRNATY
<[link removed]>
(COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA) for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 in
individuals 12 through 15 years of age



· *July 6: *FDA Authorizes Pharmacists to Prescribe Paxlovid with
Certain Limitations
<[link removed]>



· Expiration date extensions of COVID-19 at-home tests
<[link removed]>



· List of hand sanitizers consumers should not use
<[link removed]>



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*COVID-19 Vaccine Update**s*



· *FDA Approval of COMIRNATY (COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA) for use with
12 – 15 Year-Olds:* On Friday, July 8, the FDA approved COMIRNATY
<[link removed]> (COVID-19 Vaccine,
mRNA) for active immunization to prevent Coronavirus Disease 2019
(COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2
(SARS-CoV-2) in individuals 12 through 15 years of age. The Pfizer-BioNTech
COVID-19 Vaccine
<[link removed]>
has been, and will continue to be, authorized for emergency use in this age
group since May 2021. COMIRNATY (COVID-19 Vaccine, mRNA) has been approved
for use in individuals 16 years of age and older since August 2021.



· *FDA Authorizes Emergency Use of Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine,
Adjuvanted:* On July 13, the FDA issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)
for the Novavax COVID-19 Vaccine, Adjuvanted for use with individuals age
18+ as a two-dose initial series, 28 days apart. You can view the complete
press release
<[link removed]>
for efficacy data and additional details.





The CDC ACIP will meet on Tuesday, July 19 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. to discuss
and vote whether to recommend CDC authorization of the Novavax COVID-19
Vaccine, Adjuvanted for use with adults age 18+. Click here
<[link removed]> to view the meeting agenda
and to watch the ACIP meeting online.



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*COVID-19 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 5 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
<[link removed]>



*Please Note:* Incidences of “COVID-19 rebound” have been reported after
taking Paxlovid; namely, the recurrence of COVID-19 symptoms or a new
positive viral test after having tested negative, 2-8 days after initial
recovery. A brief return of symptoms may occur whether or not a person has
taken Paxlovid, and regardless of their vaccination status; therefore,
“COVID-19 rebound” does not reflect lack of effectiveness of Paxlovid,
which continues to help prevent hospitalization and death due to the
Coronavirus.



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 *7 days or less* *(updated
information), *and

o Are at high risk for severe illness, as defined by the CDC
<[link removed]>



*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*
<[link removed]>
*.*



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*COVID-19 Testing Updates: 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.*
<[link removed]>. 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*
<[link removed]>
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*
<[link removed]> 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. *

*Important Update:* There may be inaccurate information circulating about
isolation and testing requirements after testing positive for COVID-19.
Please note that CDC guidance does allow people to leave isolation after 5
full days following the first day of symptoms or a positive viral test, *if
their symptoms are improving (including being fever-free for 24 hours
without having taken fever-reducing medication)*; however, people are still
infectious at this point and must wear a high-quality mask at all times
when around others, whether in public or at home. *Individuals may leave
isolation after 5 full days to go to work, but shall not travel until 10
full days have passed since symptoms started or the day the test was taken.*



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*COVID-19 Vaccination Resources: Vaccination Scheduling, Site, and
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 Vaccine Finder: *Call 877-829-4692 or Schedule
Online: [link removed]

· *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:
[link removed]

· *State-run vaccine sites: *Call 833-697-4829 or Schedule Online:
[link removed]

· *Local and Nationwide vaccine sites:*
[link removed]

· *CVS Pharmacy: *Call 800-746-7287 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· *Rite Aid Pharmacy*: Call 800-748-3243 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>

· *Walgreens Pharmacy: *Call 800-925-4733 or Schedule Online
<[link removed]>



*Vaccine Site Resources*



· *City-run walk-up vaccination sites, and NYC mobile vaccine vans
and buses: *
[link removed].
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.



· *Important Update:** NYC In-Home Vaccination Program: *The
In-Home Vaccination Program now offers Pfizer COVID-19 vaccinations to NYC
residents who are homebound or who are age 65 or above. To express interest
in an in-home vaccination, please fill out this form:
*[link removed]*
<[link removed]>* 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 6 months – 4 years are eligible* for the Moderna or
Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination.

o COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Ages 6 Months to 4 Years: Frequently
Asked Questions
<[link removed]>

Þ *All children and adolescents age 5-17* *are eligible* for the Moderna
or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccination.

o COVID-19 Vaccines for Children Ages 5 to 17: Frequently Asked Questions
<[link removed]>

o 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
<[link removed]>
.

Þ *All individuals age 18+ are eligible *for the Moderna or Pfizer
COVID-19 vaccination, and in some situations, adults are approved to
receive the Johnson & Johnson vaccine; however, the CDC and NYC Health
Department prefer that individuals 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
<[link removed]>
to view the NYC Health Department guidance for more information.

*First Booster Shots*

Þ *Fully-vaccinated 5-11 year-olds who received their second Pfizer
vaccine dose at least 5 months ago *are approved to receive their first
Pfizer booster shot.

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.



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*COVID-19 Vaccine, Safety, and Containment Information*



· BA.5 doesn’t care that you just had Covid-19
<[link removed]>
(Vox)



· 6 COVID experts explain why Omicron BA.5 is such a concern, and
what they’re doing to avoid it
<[link removed]>
(Business Insider)



· Is It Easier to Get COVID-19 Outdoors with BA.5?
<[link removed]> (Time)



· When Will the BA.5 Wave End?
<[link removed]>
(New York Intelligencer)



· BA.5 and Our Disappearing Immunity (with Bill Hanage)
<[link removed]>
(In the Bubble with Andy Slavitt)



· Largest Study to Date Shows How Covid Vaccines Affect Periods
<[link removed]>
(NY Times)



· What To Know About COVID Variants
<[link removed]>
(WNYC’s The Takeaway)





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*Monkeypox Updates*



As of July 15, 461 cases of Monkeypox were confirmed in New York City. Last
week, the City received approximately 14,500 doses of JYNNEOS vaccine from
the federal government, which is helpful, but we need a much more
substantial supply in order to meet demand. On July 14, I joined NYS Senate
and Assembly colleagues
<[link removed]>
in urging the CDC to increase the quantity of vaccine allocation to NYC so
that it is proportional to the significantly higher number of cases
identified in the City as compared to the rest of the state. As we have
learned, having enough vaccine is key to containing spread of the virus.



As you may have heard, the first rounds of vaccine appointments were posted
online through third-party reservation platforms, which did not go well. On
Friday, July 15, a block of 9,200 first-dose appointments were posted to
the NYC Monkeypox Vaccine Portal
<[link removed]>, which was reported to have
gone smoothly. In addition to reserving an appointment online, *New Yorkers
can call 855-491-2667* if they need help making an appointment.



At this time, first dose appointments are being prioritized so that as many
people as possible will benefit from receiving the first immunization.
Normally, the second dose is administered 28 days following the first; it
is likely that some New Yorkers will not receive the second dose within
this time frame. The NYC Health Department has informed my office that
there is no known evidence of a delay between first and second doses being
problematic.



Until the City has an ample supply of vaccine, getting a vaccine
appointment will be challenging due to there being high demand and a
shortage of supply. New Yorkers can sign up for text notifications to
receive alerts about Monkeypox in NYC, including when appointments are made
available, by texting *“MONKEYPOX” to 692-692*. Monkeypox vaccine clinics
are located at the NYC Health Department’s Chelsea, Central Harlem, and
Corona Sexual Health Clinic sites *by appointment only*.



Since my last Monkeypox update, the NYC Health Department has posted
Monkeypox case data, which has a two-day reporting lag and will be updated
on a weekly basis: Case Demographics and Daily New Cases
<[link removed]>
(July 15). Please continue to visit the NYC Health Department Monkeypox web
page <[link removed]>
for additional information about Monkeypox symptoms, prevention, what to do
if you have symptoms, and updates regarding availability of vaccine. If you
suspect that you might have Monkeypox, the NYC Health Department advises
that you speak with your health care provider, stay home, and separate from
anyone in your household. If you do not have a health care provider, *call
311* or search the NYC Health Map
<[link removed]>



*For additional information, you can review the following resources:*

· What You Need to Know About Monkeypox
<[link removed]>
(NYC Health Department)

· Monkeypox Outbreak Palm Card
<[link removed]> (NYC
Health Department)

· Learn what steps you can take to reduce the chance of getting and
spreading monkeypox
<[link removed]>
(NYC Health Department)

· Monkeypox Vaccination Eligibility and How to Make an Appointment
<[link removed]>
(NYC Health Department)

· JYNNEOS Vaccine for Monkeypox: Frequently Asked Questions
<[link removed]>
(NYC Health Department)

· Monkeypox: Information for Providers
<[link removed]> (NYC
Health Department)

· CDC: Monkeypox <[link removed]>



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*District Office*: 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 1201 | New York, NY 10017
<[link removed]>
|
(212) 490-9535 | Fax: (212) 499-2558
*Albany Office*: Legislative Office Building, Room 808 | Albany, NY 12247 |
(518) 455-2297 | Fax: (518) 426-6874
*Email*: [email protected] | *On the Web*:
[link removed]
<[link removed]>
*Facebook* <[link removed]>:
/statesenatorlizkrueger | *Twitter* <[link removed]>:
@LizKrueger | *Instagram* <[link removed]>:
@senatorlizkrueger
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