NY-12 COVID Update 3/31/2021
Dear Friend,
As our city, state, and country continue to confront the COVID-19 pandemic, I write today to update you and your loved ones with the most important information during this ever-changing pandemic landscape. I hope you find it helpful. If you have friends or family who would like to receive this update, they can sign up here.
By the Numbers
Global Cases: 128,557,304
United States Confirmed Cases: 30,393,701
New York State Confirmed Cases: 1,865,349
New York City (Last 7 days)
Hospitalizations: 1,272
National Updates
President Biden and his administration continue to take steps to combat the health and economic crises caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This week, that included announcing that 90% of adults in the U.S. will be eligible for COVID vaccinations by April 19 with appointments within 5 miles of their homes and expanding access to COVID-19 vaccines to the hardest-hit and highest-risk communities across the country.
New York State Updates
More than 3 million New Yorkers, or more than 15% of the population, are now fully vaccinated for COVID!
Where and How Can I Get a Vaccine Through NYS?
Additionally, there is a network of State-run sites distributing vaccine statewide – to determine eligibility and to schedule an appointment through April 16 at New York State-run vaccination sites only, use the Am I Eligible app.
An appointment is required. If you visit a location without an appointment you will not receive a vaccine.
Expanded Vaccine Eligibility Starting this week, New Yorkers 30 and older can begin to schedule appointments and receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Beginning April 6, universal eligibility goes into effect and all New Yorkers 16 years of age and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine.
New Vaccination Site: Rockland County
Nursing Home Visitation
Opening New York Sports
SOMOS Community Care Partnership
Excelsior Pass
Extended Open Enrollment – Again! The Open Enrollment Period for uninsured New Yorkers has been extended through December 31, 2021. New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health, New York's Official Health Plan Marketplace, or directly through insurers.
Individuals who are eligible for other NY State of Health programs - Medicaid, Essential Plan and Child Health Plus - can continue to enroll year-round.
New Yorkers can apply for coverage through NY State of Health online at nystateofhealth.ny.gov, by phone at 1-855-355-5777, and by connecting with a free enrollment assister.
COVID Alert NY As a reminder, New York State has launched COVID Alert NY, an app to provide COVID-19 exposure alerts to help protect your community while maintaining your privacy. More information here.
Donate Blood The State is strongly encouraging eligible and healthy New Yorkers to donate blood. During this crisis, we have seen severe blood shortages across NYS. Your donation could save a life. More information here.
As I make this request, I am aware of and working to reverse the antiquated three month deferral policy for MSM who wish to donate blood. Last year, Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez and I were successful in getting the FDA to decrease the 12 month deferral period to three months, but we need to completely get rid of this policy that is not based on current science, stigmatizes the LGBTQIA+ community, and undermines crucial efforts to increase the nation’s blood supply as we grapple with the coronavirus crisis.
New York City Updates
Testing To find the testing site closest to you, click here, text “COVID TEST” to 855-48, or call 212-COVID19 (212-268-4319).
Signing Up To Get Your Vaccine The list of New Yorkers currently eligible and those soon-to-be-eligible to receive the vaccine in NYC can be found here.
If you are eligible, you can use the NYC Vaccine Finder to find a vaccination location near you and make an appointment.
Additional COVID-19 vaccine sites will be added as they are available. You can also make an appointment by phone by calling 1-877-VAX-4NYC (1-877-829-4692).
New Vaccination Site: Fulton Community Center
New Vaccination Site: Flatbush YMCA
Additional Resources
While the vaccination process is underway, every New Yorker should continue to wear a mask, social distance, and avoid small and large gatherings. Please continue to follow NYC’s prevention guidance and do your part to stop the spread.
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As always, your concerns still and always remain my top priority. Please do not hesitate to email me through my website.
Sincerely, |