NYC Warn Elderly are Increasingly in Danger as Cases Rise

NEW YORK
new york city health commissioner
Dr. Dave A. Chokshi at a press conference. (File)

Anyone 75 and older in New York City is being urged to stay home and avoid gathering with others as the city tallies disproportion illness and death rates among that age group.

The elderly are 6% of the city’s coronavirus cases, but make up 30% of the hospitalizations and 58% of the deaths.

“This message is as urgent as it’s ever been,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi. “Avoid activities outside of the home except for essential purposes, including medical care and other necessities. Remain vigilant. Don’t let the numbers make you numb.”

Though the state guidelines still forbid vaccinating priority groups out of order, the city is preparing to begin vaccinating the elderly as soon as possible.

A registration system, either through computer or phone, with a variety of languages offered, will be available for seniors to register for vaccination.

Additional assistance will be offered to elderly men and women who are frail and find it difficult to travel for the vaccine.

The city is pressing forward in its vaccination campaign, and is now allowed by the state to vaccinate fire responders, firefighters, health aides, and police officers.

“To all the home health workers, home health aides out there, please get vaccines right away. We are ready for you starting today. We want to make sure you get vaccinated,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio at his Wednesday press conference. “To all of the families who benefit from the love and support of these home health care workers, please let them know vaccination available through Health + Hospitals right now for free, fast, easy, safe, effective.”

Up to 25,000 NYPD officers and professionals are now eligible to vaccinated, and the city aims to inoculate 10,000 within five days.

The city is also setting up 24/7 vaccine sites, with one in Brooklyn Army Terminal and the other in Bathgate Industrial Park in the Bronx. More will be opening in the upcoming days, and they are appointment only.

Vaccine sites with limited hours will be opening in Brooklyn at the Bushwick Educational Campus, the Hillcrest High School in Queens, and the South Bronx Educational campus. All are appointment only, and individuals can register through the Department of Health website.

 

 

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