Gov. Kathy Hochul declared a state of emergency in New York on Friday, citing an increasing number of COVID-19 cases as well as the newly discovered Omicron variant of the virus.
It’s all over NBC’s local affiliate, which reports that this declaration will help the state prepare for an increase in cases, expand its hospital capacity and deal with potential staff shortages.
- The declaration also allows the state’s hospitals to limit non-emergency care until at least January 15 to ensure that capacity can meet regional needs.
- Hochul told NBC 4 on Friday that “it’s coming” when asked about the Omicron variant, which has yet to be found in the US.
On the same day as Hochul’s announcement, the Biden administration announced that it would restrict air travel from eight countries in response to concerns about the new variant.
- To protect New Yorkers, Hochul urged them to get the COVID-19 vaccine or a booster injection.
- One of the best ways we can fight the pandemic is to get vaccinated, and I encourage every New Yorker to get a booster if they’ve already been vaccinated,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio on Thursday.
Related:
- Will J&J And Pfizer Vaccines Work Against the ‘Omicron’ Variant? Here’s What Experts Say
- Is Pfizer Vaccine is Non-Effective Against ‘Omicron’ Variant? New Vaccine Going To Available in 100 Days
- 30 Times More Deadlier ‘Omicron’ New Coronavirus Variant Has the World Freaking Out
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