Broome/Tioga’s COVID Risk Rate Improves on CDC Map

Broome County has lost three more residents this week to the COVID-19 pandemic but is improving on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention risk map.

On February 24, Broome, Tioga and Susquehanna Counties were listed on the CDC map in the high-risk orange group.  March 3, the counties have been moved to yellow, or medium risk.

Chenango, Delaware, Bradford & Wayne Counties are ranked low.  Cortland has improved from being colored yellow last week as a medium risk to green, low risk.

On February 24, the CDC said that residents of counties that were not considered at high risk of the spread of COVID-19 overwhelming hospitals could consider going without face masks but should still be vaccinated against the virus and up to date on boosters.  Masks are still recommended for those with compromised immune systems or who have close contact with people who are at risk of severe disease.  Masks are still mandated under federal law on public transportation but that mandate could be revisited in the next couple of weeks.

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Individuals should still rely on their level of comfort when it comes to wearing a mask. If they feel they will be in a situation where there could be a number of unvaccinated people in close quarters or in areas without adequate ventilation or if they are not feeling well, they can opt mask.  Anyone who is exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID or who are coming out of quarantine after testing positive for COVID should also wear a mask. For more information, visit the CDC website.