×

New coronavirus case linked to large gatherings in Warren Co.

Warren County Health Services on Tuesday confirmed another positive coronavirus case stemming from a large gathering in violation of state regulations.

The person attended at least two large parties this month where proper precautions were not taken, including a graduation party that was attended by more than 50 people — a violation of the state’s ban on large public gatherings, according to Health Services.

County contact tracers were told those in attendance were not wearing masks. The person then attended a family gathering of 20 people where no masks were worn, before going out to dinner with a friend, Health Services said.

“It is yet another local example of the consequences of attending social gatherings without taking the proper COVID precautions,” County Administrator Ryan Moore said in a statement.

At least seven COVID cases this month have been linked to large gatherings, according to Health Services.

Warren County officials are asking everyone to refrain from attending nonessential gatherings.

Meanwhile, the county is refusing to release the name of the facility that employs a health care worker who tested positive for the virus on Monday.

The person — who was asymptomatic — was found to be positive for the virus after a routine COVID test required under state guidelines.

More than 100 people have been asked to quarantine as a result of the case, but county officials said that number is likely to grow as contact tracers continue to reach out to those who had contact with the person.

“We have been consistent throughout this health emergency in not identifying affected facilities or businesses, unless there is a need to publicize for contact tracing,” Don Lehman, a county spokesman, said in a statement.

“There is no such need in this situation, as the businesses involved all kept good records of patients and employees for contact-tracing.”

New York, meanwhile, announced travelers from 10 additional states will be required to quarantine for 14 days as the number of coronavirus cases continues to climb across the country.

They additional state on the list are Alaska, Delaware, Indiana, Maryland, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, Virginia and Washington.

Minnesota has since been removed from the list, bringing the total number of states on it up to 31.

Also on Tuesday: Warren County reported one new case, for a total of 268 confirmed cases. Seven people are currently ill, all mildly, with no hospitalizations.

Washington County reported one new case, for a total of 230 confirmed cases.

Saratoga County reported seven additional cases, for a total of 659 confirmed cases. Two people are hospitalized. The county is currently monitoring 52 active cases.

Essex County reported no new cases, for a total of 51 confirmed cases.

Statewide there were 844 new cases reported with two fatalities — the lowest number of deaths since the first fatalities were reported.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.75/week.

Subscribe Today