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N.Y.C. Death Toll Tops 1,500 as Cuomo Warns on Ventilators N.Y.C. Death Toll Tops 1,500 as Cuomo Warns on Ventilators
(2 days later)
[This briefing has ended. For the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak in the New York area, read Friday’s live coverage.][This briefing has ended. For the latest updates on the coronavirus outbreak in the New York area, read Friday’s live coverage.]
The warning from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Thursday was ominous: At the rate the state was using ventilators for coronavirus patients, it would run out in just six days.The warning from Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo on Thursday was ominous: At the rate the state was using ventilators for coronavirus patients, it would run out in just six days.
The remarks imposed an urgent timeline on the guidance the governor has been giving for weeks — that if New York did not get a major infusion of the potentially lifesaving machines, and quickly, the number of virus-related deaths in the state would spike drastically.The remarks imposed an urgent timeline on the guidance the governor has been giving for weeks — that if New York did not get a major infusion of the potentially lifesaving machines, and quickly, the number of virus-related deaths in the state would spike drastically.
“If a person comes in and needs a ventilator and you don’t have a ventilator, the person dies,” Mr. Cuomo said at his daily briefing in Albany. “That’s the blunt equation here. And right now we have a burn rate that would suggest we have about six days in the stockpile.”“If a person comes in and needs a ventilator and you don’t have a ventilator, the person dies,” Mr. Cuomo said at his daily briefing in Albany. “That’s the blunt equation here. And right now we have a burn rate that would suggest we have about six days in the stockpile.”
The comments came as doctors in New York City, where hospitals’ supplies are dwindling amid a flood of virus patients, cautioned that medical workers might soon need to make difficult choices about rationing care.The comments came as doctors in New York City, where hospitals’ supplies are dwindling amid a flood of virus patients, cautioned that medical workers might soon need to make difficult choices about rationing care.
Across the United States, hospitals and public health officials have been working on plans for what might happen if the number of virus patients were to exceed the available space in intensive care units.Across the United States, hospitals and public health officials have been working on plans for what might happen if the number of virus patients were to exceed the available space in intensive care units.
The governor said that there were 2,200 ventilators in the state’s stockpile and that about 350 new patients a day need them. At that pace, he said, “2,200 disappears very quickly.”The governor said that there were 2,200 ventilators in the state’s stockpile and that about 350 new patients a day need them. At that pace, he said, “2,200 disappears very quickly.”
On Thursday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said that New York City alone would need 2,500 to 3,000 new ventilators next week to cope with an expected surge in patients.On Thursday, Mayor Bill de Blasio said that New York City alone would need 2,500 to 3,000 new ventilators next week to cope with an expected surge in patients.
Mr. Cuomo said that he had spoken to President Trump on Thursday and that while he was sure “the federal government would do anything they can do to help,” he did not think New York could count on the White House to address the shortfall in time.Mr. Cuomo said that he had spoken to President Trump on Thursday and that while he was sure “the federal government would do anything they can do to help,” he did not think New York could count on the White House to address the shortfall in time.
“I don’t think the federal government is in a position to provide ventilators to the extent the nation may need them,” he said. “Assume you are on your own in life.”“I don’t think the federal government is in a position to provide ventilators to the extent the nation may need them,” he said. “Assume you are on your own in life.”
Mr. Cuomo said, however, that the state had been making contingency plans. It is trying to buy ventilators on the open market and converting so-called BiPAP machines — another kind of respiratory device — for use as ventilators. Unused ventilators from hospitals in upstate New York could also be trucked to New York City and the surrounding area as needed, he said.Mr. Cuomo said, however, that the state had been making contingency plans. It is trying to buy ventilators on the open market and converting so-called BiPAP machines — another kind of respiratory device — for use as ventilators. Unused ventilators from hospitals in upstate New York could also be trucked to New York City and the surrounding area as needed, he said.
“We have all these extraordinary measures that I believe if push comes to shove will put us in fairly good shape,” he said.“We have all these extraordinary measures that I believe if push comes to shove will put us in fairly good shape,” he said.
Other daily statistics:Other daily statistics:
Deaths in New York State: 2,373, up 432 from 1,941 on Wednesday. New York now accounts for 42 percent of the 5,708 virus-related deaths in the United States.Deaths in New York State: 2,373, up 432 from 1,941 on Wednesday. New York now accounts for 42 percent of the 5,708 virus-related deaths in the United States.
Deaths in New York City: 1,562, up 188 from 1,374 on Wednesday.Deaths in New York City: 1,562, up 188 from 1,374 on Wednesday.
Confirmed cases: 92,381 in New York State, up from 83,712. New York City has nearly 52,000.Confirmed cases: 92,381 in New York State, up from 83,712. New York City has nearly 52,000.
Hospitalized in New York State: 13,383, up from 12,226.Hospitalized in New York State: 13,383, up from 12,226.
In intensive care in New York State: 3,396, up from 3,022.In intensive care in New York State: 3,396, up from 3,022.
An emergency hospital set up at the Javits Convention Center in Manhattan will now be used to treat virus patients, Mr. Cuomo said on Thursday.An emergency hospital set up at the Javits Convention Center in Manhattan will now be used to treat virus patients, Mr. Cuomo said on Thursday.
The facility, which was set up by the Army Corps of Engineers, was originally intended to treat non-virus patients to free up beds at other hospitals that are being overwhelmed by the outbreak.The facility, which was set up by the Army Corps of Engineers, was originally intended to treat non-virus patients to free up beds at other hospitals that are being overwhelmed by the outbreak.
But with the number of virus cases continuing to surge — and only a small number of the Javits beds in use as of Wednesday — Mr. Cuomo asked that people infected with the virus be treated at the convention hall.But with the number of virus cases continuing to surge — and only a small number of the Javits beds in use as of Wednesday — Mr. Cuomo asked that people infected with the virus be treated at the convention hall.
“I asked President Trump this morning to consider the request and the urgency of the matter,” Mr. Cuomo said in a statement. “And the president has just informed me that he granted New York’s request.”“I asked President Trump this morning to consider the request and the urgency of the matter,” Mr. Cuomo said in a statement. “And the president has just informed me that he granted New York’s request.”
The Javits facility is one of several temporary hospitals being built to increase the capacity of the city’s health care system.The Javits facility is one of several temporary hospitals being built to increase the capacity of the city’s health care system.
On Tuesday, city officials announced that the U.S.T.A. Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens, would be converted to an emergency hospital as the number of virus patients in the borough soared. A tented hospital has also gone up in Central Park.On Tuesday, city officials announced that the U.S.T.A. Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, Queens, would be converted to an emergency hospital as the number of virus patients in the borough soared. A tented hospital has also gone up in Central Park.
Mr. Cuomo also said on Thursday that temporary hospitals would be set up at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal and at a state Office of Mental Health center on Staten Island.Mr. Cuomo also said on Thursday that temporary hospitals would be set up at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal and at a state Office of Mental Health center on Staten Island.
New York City officials on Thursday advised residents to shield their faces with a scarf, bandanna or other protective covering when leaving their homes, although they reiterated that people should continue to stay at home as much as possible during the coronavirus outbreak.New York City officials on Thursday advised residents to shield their faces with a scarf, bandanna or other protective covering when leaving their homes, although they reiterated that people should continue to stay at home as much as possible during the coronavirus outbreak.
Mr. de Blasio urged city residents not to use the surgical or N-95 masks that are desperately needed by emergency services workers, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff employees who are treating infected patients.Mr. de Blasio urged city residents not to use the surgical or N-95 masks that are desperately needed by emergency services workers, doctors, nurses and other hospital staff employees who are treating infected patients.
“You can create your own version,” Mr. de Blasio said. “You can be creative and put whatever decoration you want on it. It can be as homemade as you want. But that’s what we want you to do: something homemade.”“You can create your own version,” Mr. de Blasio said. “You can be creative and put whatever decoration you want on it. It can be as homemade as you want. But that’s what we want you to do: something homemade.”
The mayor and the city’s health commissioner, Dr. Oxiris Barbot, repeatedly said that the city and state’s social distancing guidelines continued to apply.The mayor and the city’s health commissioner, Dr. Oxiris Barbot, repeatedly said that the city and state’s social distancing guidelines continued to apply.
“These face coverings shouldn’t be seen as an invitation to come closer,” Dr. Barbot said.“These face coverings shouldn’t be seen as an invitation to come closer,” Dr. Barbot said.
Mr. de Blasio said that city officials were offering the new guidance because they were increasingly concerned that apparently healthy people who did not have virus symptoms could be spreading infection regardless.Mr. de Blasio said that city officials were offering the new guidance because they were increasingly concerned that apparently healthy people who did not have virus symptoms could be spreading infection regardless.
The Trump administration is expected to announce that all Americans should wear cloth masks or other face coverings if they go out in public, based on a forthcoming recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The Trump administration is expected to announce that all Americans should wear cloth masks or other face coverings if they go out in public, based on a forthcoming recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The announcement would be a shift in federal guidance amid new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who show no symptoms.The announcement would be a shift in federal guidance amid new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who show no symptoms.
Until now, the C.D.C., like the World Health Organization, has advised that ordinary people need not wear masks unless they are sick and coughing, partly to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them.Until now, the C.D.C., like the World Health Organization, has advised that ordinary people need not wear masks unless they are sick and coughing, partly to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them.
With the virus racing through the state, sickening thousands of New Yorkers each day and draining the state economy, Mr. Cuomo on Thursday announced an agreement with the Legislature on a $177 billion budget that was laden with uncertainties.With the virus racing through the state, sickening thousands of New Yorkers each day and draining the state economy, Mr. Cuomo on Thursday announced an agreement with the Legislature on a $177 billion budget that was laden with uncertainties.
The state is expecting at least $10 billion less in tax revenue, a steep gap that officials are already hoping to bridge with federal aid, short-term loans and cuts. Reserves may also be tapped.The state is expecting at least $10 billion less in tax revenue, a steep gap that officials are already hoping to bridge with federal aid, short-term loans and cuts. Reserves may also be tapped.
The budget agreement, as it often does in New York, included an array of nonfiscal measures. They included modifications to last year’s bail reform law, which had eliminated bail for most misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies, and an end to a ban on gestational surrogacy.The budget agreement, as it often does in New York, included an array of nonfiscal measures. They included modifications to last year’s bail reform law, which had eliminated bail for most misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies, and an end to a ban on gestational surrogacy.
But little about the budget — from the raw numbers to the negotiations leading to the agreement — was typical.But little about the budget — from the raw numbers to the negotiations leading to the agreement — was typical.
With many businesses shut down and the state bracing for a cash flow crunch, lawmakers agreed to approve billions of dollars in borrowing to pay off future expenses, necessitating a temporary waiver to a legal debt cap meant to control levels of borrowing.With many businesses shut down and the state bracing for a cash flow crunch, lawmakers agreed to approve billions of dollars in borrowing to pay off future expenses, necessitating a temporary waiver to a legal debt cap meant to control levels of borrowing.
“We can’t spend what we don’t have,” said Mr. Cuomo, who called the spending plan “a tough, tough budget” for everyone involved.“We can’t spend what we don’t have,” said Mr. Cuomo, who called the spending plan “a tough, tough budget” for everyone involved.
Mayor Ras J. Baraka of Newark announced Thursday that his city and three neighboring New Jersey communities were enacting aggressive measures to slow the spread of the virus.Mayor Ras J. Baraka of Newark announced Thursday that his city and three neighboring New Jersey communities were enacting aggressive measures to slow the spread of the virus.
In “Operation Lockdown,” as the effort is called, police will patrol the borders between Newark, Orange, East Orange and Irvington, and other areas, to reduce traffic between the four cities.In “Operation Lockdown,” as the effort is called, police will patrol the borders between Newark, Orange, East Orange and Irvington, and other areas, to reduce traffic between the four cities.
Other patrols are focused on breaking up gatherings outside stores, in parks and on corners. Violators will face summonses and legal action, Mr. Baraka said. The crackdown will last seven days and could be extended.Other patrols are focused on breaking up gatherings outside stores, in parks and on corners. Violators will face summonses and legal action, Mr. Baraka said. The crackdown will last seven days and could be extended.
Mr. Baraka said in a statement that people traveling back and forth between the cities, which are all in Essex County, were “making all of our neighborhoods unsafe, so we are going to have the police from our individual communities patrolling the borders to keep them from entering.”Mr. Baraka said in a statement that people traveling back and forth between the cities, which are all in Essex County, were “making all of our neighborhoods unsafe, so we are going to have the police from our individual communities patrolling the borders to keep them from entering.”
There were 2,617 confirmed cases of the virus and 99 deaths in Essex County as of Thursday. Only Bergen County, the state’s most populous county, had more.There were 2,617 confirmed cases of the virus and 99 deaths in Essex County as of Thursday. Only Bergen County, the state’s most populous county, had more.
With 182 new deaths since Wednesday, New Jersey’s death toll from the virus more than doubled, to 537, in two days, Gov. Phil Murphy said on Thursday.With 182 new deaths since Wednesday, New Jersey’s death toll from the virus more than doubled, to 537, in two days, Gov. Phil Murphy said on Thursday.
“I know these numbers are stark," he said. “They are certainly sobering."“I know these numbers are stark," he said. “They are certainly sobering."
With 432 more deaths in New York State and 27 deaths in Connecticut reported on Thursday, the toll for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut stood at 3,022.With 432 more deaths in New York State and 27 deaths in Connecticut reported on Thursday, the toll for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut stood at 3,022.
New Jersey now has over 25,000 confirmed virus cases, with 3,500 people testing positive since Wednesday, the governor said.New Jersey now has over 25,000 confirmed virus cases, with 3,500 people testing positive since Wednesday, the governor said.
Mr. Murphy spoke after touring a 250-bed field hospital at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus that is to open on Monday. The state is building similar hospitals in Edison and Atlantic City.Mr. Murphy spoke after touring a 250-bed field hospital at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus that is to open on Monday. The state is building similar hospitals in Edison and Atlantic City.
Mr. Murphy also said he had signed an executive order authorizing the State Police to commandeer medical supplies.Mr. Murphy also said he had signed an executive order authorizing the State Police to commandeer medical supplies.
And he noted that six people in the state had been criminally charged with assaulting law enforcement officers by spitting or coughing on them and claiming to have the virus. Offenders face fines of up to $10,000 and up to 18 months in jail.And he noted that six people in the state had been criminally charged with assaulting law enforcement officers by spitting or coughing on them and claiming to have the virus. Offenders face fines of up to $10,000 and up to 18 months in jail.
New York City recorded its first coronavirus-related death of a public-school teacher this week after a third-grade teacher at Public School 9 in Brooklyn died late Tuesday, officials said.New York City recorded its first coronavirus-related death of a public-school teacher this week after a third-grade teacher at Public School 9 in Brooklyn died late Tuesday, officials said.
“This is a tragedy for the P.S. 9 students, staff and the entire school community,” the school’s principal, Fatimah Ali, wrote in a message to parents and students about the death of the teacher, Sandra Santos-Vizcaino.“This is a tragedy for the P.S. 9 students, staff and the entire school community,” the school’s principal, Fatimah Ali, wrote in a message to parents and students about the death of the teacher, Sandra Santos-Vizcaino.
Ms. Santos-Vizcaino’s current and former students and colleagues shared memories of her on a tribute page.Ms. Santos-Vizcaino’s current and former students and colleagues shared memories of her on a tribute page.
“No one could make me happy the way you did,” one student wrote. “I can’t imagine passing her room and not seeing her there or not even being able to ask her a question. This is all too surreal,” wrote Deirdre Levy, a fellow teacher at the school.“No one could make me happy the way you did,” one student wrote. “I can’t imagine passing her room and not seeing her there or not even being able to ask her a question. This is all too surreal,” wrote Deirdre Levy, a fellow teacher at the school.
Ms. Santos-Vizcaino’s death was not the Department of Education’s first virus-related fatality. Dez-Ann Romain, the principal of the Brooklyn Democracy Academy, died last month after becoming infected with the virus.Ms. Santos-Vizcaino’s death was not the Department of Education’s first virus-related fatality. Dez-Ann Romain, the principal of the Brooklyn Democracy Academy, died last month after becoming infected with the virus.
With 1.1 million students and over 75,000 teachers, the city’s public school system is the largest in the United States. Mayor Bill de Blasio closed the schools on March 15 under mounting pressure from parents and educators.With 1.1 million students and over 75,000 teachers, the city’s public school system is the largest in the United States. Mayor Bill de Blasio closed the schools on March 15 under mounting pressure from parents and educators.
When a doctor at one of New York City’s top hospitals arrived for work on Tuesday, she received a bag of protective equipment that held, in place of the usual medical gown, a plastic white-and-navy New York Yankees poncho, the kind available for purchase on rainy game days.When a doctor at one of New York City’s top hospitals arrived for work on Tuesday, she received a bag of protective equipment that held, in place of the usual medical gown, a plastic white-and-navy New York Yankees poncho, the kind available for purchase on rainy game days.
Outraged, the doctor, an obstetrician-gynecologist resident at the hospital, part of Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, took a picture of the poncho and posted it on Twitter.Outraged, the doctor, an obstetrician-gynecologist resident at the hospital, part of Montefiore Medical Center in the Bronx, took a picture of the poncho and posted it on Twitter.
“I’m a physician at a hospital in NYC and THIS IS THE ‘PPE’ I WAS JUST HANDED for my shift,” she wrote, using the acronym for “personal protective equipment.”“I’m a physician at a hospital in NYC and THIS IS THE ‘PPE’ I WAS JUST HANDED for my shift,” she wrote, using the acronym for “personal protective equipment.”
The post was retweeted tens of thousands of times, emerging as a viral illustration of the equipment shortages that have plagued hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic.The post was retweeted tens of thousands of times, emerging as a viral illustration of the equipment shortages that have plagued hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic.
In a statement, Montefiore Medical Center said the ponchos were not intended as protective gear but instead were a gift to weary staffers.In a statement, Montefiore Medical Center said the ponchos were not intended as protective gear but instead were a gift to weary staffers.
But a Yankees executive, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that someone at the hospital had contacted the team recently, asking specifically for ponchos. And four hospital employees who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution said they had received bags containing ponchos and were told to use the items as protective equipment.But a Yankees executive, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that someone at the hospital had contacted the team recently, asking specifically for ponchos. And four hospital employees who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution said they had received bags containing ponchos and were told to use the items as protective equipment.
All said they refused to wear the ponchos and instead reused old gowns or dipped into the hospital’s dwindling emergency supplies.All said they refused to wear the ponchos and instead reused old gowns or dipped into the hospital’s dwindling emergency supplies.
“If it was a gift, it was a terrible gift,” one employee said.“If it was a gift, it was a terrible gift,” one employee said.
An inmate at the Sing Sing Correctional facility north of New York City died this week after contracting the coronavirus, the first virus-related death in the state prison system, officials confirmed on Thursday.An inmate at the Sing Sing Correctional facility north of New York City died this week after contracting the coronavirus, the first virus-related death in the state prison system, officials confirmed on Thursday.
Updated June 2, 2020 Updated June 5, 2020
The unemployment rate fell to 13.3 percent in May, the Labor Department said on June 5, an unexpected improvement in the nation’s job market as hiring rebounded faster than economists expected. Economists had forecast the unemployment rate to increase to as much as 20 percent, after it hit 14.7 percent in April, which was the highest since the government began keeping official statistics after World War II. But the unemployment rate dipped instead, with employers adding 2.5 million jobs, after more than 20 million jobs were lost in April.
Mass protests against police brutality that have brought thousands of people onto the streets in cities across America are raising the specter of new coronavirus outbreaks, prompting political leaders, physicians and public health experts to warn that the crowds could cause a surge in cases. While many political leaders affirmed the right of protesters to express themselves, they urged the demonstrators to wear face masks and maintain social distancing, both to protect themselves and to prevent further community spread of the virus. Some infectious disease experts were reassured by the fact that the protests were held outdoors, saying the open air settings could mitigate the risk of transmission.Mass protests against police brutality that have brought thousands of people onto the streets in cities across America are raising the specter of new coronavirus outbreaks, prompting political leaders, physicians and public health experts to warn that the crowds could cause a surge in cases. While many political leaders affirmed the right of protesters to express themselves, they urged the demonstrators to wear face masks and maintain social distancing, both to protect themselves and to prevent further community spread of the virus. Some infectious disease experts were reassured by the fact that the protests were held outdoors, saying the open air settings could mitigate the risk of transmission.
Exercise researchers and physicians have some blunt advice for those of us aiming to return to regular exercise now: Start slowly and then rev up your workouts, also slowly. American adults tended to be about 12 percent less active after the stay-at-home mandates began in March than they were in January. But there are steps you can take to ease your way back into regular exercise safely. First, “start at no more than 50 percent of the exercise you were doing before Covid,” says Dr. Monica Rho, the chief of musculoskeletal medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Thread in some preparatory squats, too, she advises. “When you haven’t been exercising, you lose muscle mass.” Expect some muscle twinges after these preliminary, post-lockdown sessions, especially a day or two later. But sudden or increasing pain during exercise is a clarion call to stop and return home.Exercise researchers and physicians have some blunt advice for those of us aiming to return to regular exercise now: Start slowly and then rev up your workouts, also slowly. American adults tended to be about 12 percent less active after the stay-at-home mandates began in March than they were in January. But there are steps you can take to ease your way back into regular exercise safely. First, “start at no more than 50 percent of the exercise you were doing before Covid,” says Dr. Monica Rho, the chief of musculoskeletal medicine at the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in Chicago. Thread in some preparatory squats, too, she advises. “When you haven’t been exercising, you lose muscle mass.” Expect some muscle twinges after these preliminary, post-lockdown sessions, especially a day or two later. But sudden or increasing pain during exercise is a clarion call to stop and return home.
States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.States are reopening bit by bit. This means that more public spaces are available for use and more and more businesses are being allowed to open again. The federal government is largely leaving the decision up to states, and some state leaders are leaving the decision up to local authorities. Even if you aren’t being told to stay at home, it’s still a good idea to limit trips outside and your interaction with other people.
Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.Touching contaminated objects and then infecting ourselves with the germs is not typically how the virus spreads. But it can happen. A number of studies of flu, rhinovirus, coronavirus and other microbes have shown that respiratory illnesses, including the new coronavirus, can spread by touching contaminated surfaces, particularly in places like day care centers, offices and hospitals. But a long chain of events has to happen for the disease to spread that way. The best way to protect yourself from coronavirus — whether it’s surface transmission or close human contact — is still social distancing, washing your hands, not touching your face and wearing masks.
Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.Common symptoms include fever, a dry cough, fatigue and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Some of these symptoms overlap with those of the flu, making detection difficult, but runny noses and stuffy sinuses are less common. The C.D.C. has also added chills, muscle pain, sore throat, headache and a new loss of the sense of taste or smell as symptoms to look out for. Most people fall ill five to seven days after exposure, but symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as many as 14 days.
If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)If air travel is unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to protect yourself. Most important: Wash your hands often, and stop touching your face. If possible, choose a window seat. A study from Emory University found that during flu season, the safest place to sit on a plane is by a window, as people sitting in window seats had less contact with potentially sick people. Disinfect hard surfaces. When you get to your seat and your hands are clean, use disinfecting wipes to clean the hard surfaces at your seat like the head and arm rest, the seatbelt buckle, the remote, screen, seat back pocket and the tray table. If the seat is hard and nonporous or leather or pleather, you can wipe that down, too. (Using wipes on upholstered seats could lead to a wet seat and spreading of germs rather than killing them.)
More than 40 million people — the equivalent of 1 in 4 U.S. workers — have filed for unemployment benefits since the pandemic took hold. One in five who were working in February reported losing a job or being furloughed in March or the beginning of April, data from a Federal Reserve survey released on May 14 showed, and that pain was highly concentrated among low earners. Fully 39 percent of former workers living in a household earning $40,000 or less lost work, compared with 13 percent in those making more than $100,000, a Fed official said.
Taking one’s temperature to look for signs of fever is not as easy as it sounds, as “normal” temperature numbers can vary, but generally, keep an eye out for a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you don’t have a thermometer (they can be pricey these days), there are other ways to figure out if you have a fever, or are at risk of Covid-19 complications.Taking one’s temperature to look for signs of fever is not as easy as it sounds, as “normal” temperature numbers can vary, but generally, keep an eye out for a temperature of 100.5 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. If you don’t have a thermometer (they can be pricey these days), there are other ways to figure out if you have a fever, or are at risk of Covid-19 complications.
The C.D.C. has recommended that all Americans wear cloth masks if they go out in public. This is a shift in federal guidance reflecting new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms. Until now, the C.D.C., like the W.H.O., has advised that ordinary people don’t need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply. Masks don’t replace hand washing and social distancing.The C.D.C. has recommended that all Americans wear cloth masks if they go out in public. This is a shift in federal guidance reflecting new concerns that the coronavirus is being spread by infected people who have no symptoms. Until now, the C.D.C., like the W.H.O., has advised that ordinary people don’t need to wear masks unless they are sick and coughing. Part of the reason was to preserve medical-grade masks for health care workers who desperately need them at a time when they are in continuously short supply. Masks don’t replace hand washing and social distancing.
If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.If you’ve been exposed to the coronavirus or think you have, and have a fever or symptoms like a cough or difficulty breathing, call a doctor. They should give you advice on whether you should be tested, how to get tested, and how to seek medical treatment without potentially infecting or exposing others.
If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.If you’re sick and you think you’ve been exposed to the new coronavirus, the C.D.C. recommends that you call your healthcare provider and explain your symptoms and fears. They will decide if you need to be tested. Keep in mind that there’s a chance — because of a lack of testing kits or because you’re asymptomatic, for instance — you won’t be able to get tested.
The inmate, Juan R. Mosquero, 58, tested positive for the virus and did not appear to have any pre-existing health conditions, according to an employee at the Westchester County Medical Examiner’s Office, which conducted an autopsy.The inmate, Juan R. Mosquero, 58, tested positive for the virus and did not appear to have any pre-existing health conditions, according to an employee at the Westchester County Medical Examiner’s Office, which conducted an autopsy.
He was not hospitalized when he died, said the employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution.He was not hospitalized when he died, said the employee, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retribution.
Mr. Mosquero was serving a sentence of up to 35 years in prison after being convicted in Queens in 2012 on charges of first-degree criminal sexual act and first-degree sexual conduct against a child, according to the state corrections department.Mr. Mosquero was serving a sentence of up to 35 years in prison after being convicted in Queens in 2012 on charges of first-degree criminal sexual act and first-degree sexual conduct against a child, according to the state corrections department.
He is one of 24 inmates in New York’s prison system to have been infected with the virus, officials said. There about 43,000 prisoners in the state’s 52 prisons. As of Thursday, 176 staff members had tested positive for the virus.He is one of 24 inmates in New York’s prison system to have been infected with the virus, officials said. There about 43,000 prisoners in the state’s 52 prisons. As of Thursday, 176 staff members had tested positive for the virus.
Mr. Mosquero’s death will be reviewed by the State Commission on Correction, which oversees the state’s prisons.Mr. Mosquero’s death will be reviewed by the State Commission on Correction, which oversees the state’s prisons.
Anthony Annucci, the state’s acting corrections commissioner declined an interview request on Thursday.Anthony Annucci, the state’s acting corrections commissioner declined an interview request on Thursday.
He said in a statement that because of the outbreak, the department had suspended “visitation early on, eliminated intake and transfers of individuals throughout the system, distributed hand sanitizer in common areas, and have been dogged in our identification of symptomatic staff and incarcerated individuals.”He said in a statement that because of the outbreak, the department had suspended “visitation early on, eliminated intake and transfers of individuals throughout the system, distributed hand sanitizer in common areas, and have been dogged in our identification of symptomatic staff and incarcerated individuals.”
A prisoners’ advocacy group on Thursday called for Mr. Cuomo to release prisoners who are at increased risk of becoming infected with the virus because they older or have compromised immune systems.A prisoners’ advocacy group on Thursday called for Mr. Cuomo to release prisoners who are at increased risk of becoming infected with the virus because they older or have compromised immune systems.
“We knew people were going to die,” Dave George, associate director of the Release Aging People in Prison Campaign and Parole Preparation Project said in a statement. “We knew people were going to die. The governor must immediately grant clemencies to thousands of incarcerated New Yorkers before more deaths occur in his state prisons.”“We knew people were going to die,” Dave George, associate director of the Release Aging People in Prison Campaign and Parole Preparation Project said in a statement. “We knew people were going to die. The governor must immediately grant clemencies to thousands of incarcerated New Yorkers before more deaths occur in his state prisons.”
Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic minority leader, tweeted on Thursday that Mr. Trump should “quickly produce more medical supplies and equipment under the Defense Production Act NOW.”Senator Chuck Schumer, the Democratic minority leader, tweeted on Thursday that Mr. Trump should “quickly produce more medical supplies and equipment under the Defense Production Act NOW.”
“He needs to appoint a czar like a military or logistics expert to lead the effort to make and get the supplies where they’re needed,” Mr. Schumer wrote.“He needs to appoint a czar like a military or logistics expert to lead the effort to make and get the supplies where they’re needed,” Mr. Schumer wrote.
About 10 minutes later, the president targeted the senator in his own message, writing “Somebody please explain to Cryin’ Chuck Schumer that we do have a military man in charge of distributing goods, a very talented Admiral, in fact.”About 10 minutes later, the president targeted the senator in his own message, writing “Somebody please explain to Cryin’ Chuck Schumer that we do have a military man in charge of distributing goods, a very talented Admiral, in fact.”
He seemed to be referring to Rear Admiral John Polowczyk, a senior navy officer who is leading FEMA’s supply chain task force.He seemed to be referring to Rear Admiral John Polowczyk, a senior navy officer who is leading FEMA’s supply chain task force.
The president sent a follow-up tweet contrasting Mr. Schumer with Governor Cuomo, whom he said was “working hard”:The president sent a follow-up tweet contrasting Mr. Schumer with Governor Cuomo, whom he said was “working hard”:
Senator Schumer, in his post, did not specify that he had been tweeting on behalf of his home state of New York.Senator Schumer, in his post, did not specify that he had been tweeting on behalf of his home state of New York.
Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio have been in continual contact with the president, alternately pleading for and demanding supplies. The federal government has sent at least 4,400 ventilators to the state.Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio have been in continual contact with the president, alternately pleading for and demanding supplies. The federal government has sent at least 4,400 ventilators to the state.
At SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, the operating rooms have been freed up and the cafeteria has been turned into a medical ward. On Mr. Cuomo’s orders, the hospital is to begin treating virus patients exclusively, and officials have been told to make way for hundreds of such patients.At SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, the operating rooms have been freed up and the cafeteria has been turned into a medical ward. On Mr. Cuomo’s orders, the hospital is to begin treating virus patients exclusively, and officials have been told to make way for hundreds of such patients.
“We’re really scrubbing the deck,” said Dr. Wayne J. Riley, the president of the hospital, which is part of the State University of New York system and among Brooklyn’s largest employers.“We’re really scrubbing the deck,” said Dr. Wayne J. Riley, the president of the hospital, which is part of the State University of New York system and among Brooklyn’s largest employers.
The number of virus patients at the hospital is already nearing 200, Dr. Riley said, and the SUNY Downstate expects up to 150 more. Patients with other ailments will be transferred to either the Navy hospital ship Comfort or to makeshift wards at the Javits Convention Center.The number of virus patients at the hospital is already nearing 200, Dr. Riley said, and the SUNY Downstate expects up to 150 more. Patients with other ailments will be transferred to either the Navy hospital ship Comfort or to makeshift wards at the Javits Convention Center.
The governor has designated two other state facilities, South Beach Psychiatric Facility in Staten Island and Westchester Square in the Bronx, for virus patients specifically.The governor has designated two other state facilities, South Beach Psychiatric Facility in Staten Island and Westchester Square in the Bronx, for virus patients specifically.
As at other hospitals in New York City, the virus has taken a toll on SUNY Downstate, where resources are running low and doctors and nurses continue to get sick.As at other hospitals in New York City, the virus has taken a toll on SUNY Downstate, where resources are running low and doctors and nurses continue to get sick.
Even in normal times, the hospital has struggled. It is chronically underfunded and has not had serious capital improvements since it was built in 1963.Even in normal times, the hospital has struggled. It is chronically underfunded and has not had serious capital improvements since it was built in 1963.
SUNY Downstate serves a population that is among the city’s poorest, with high rates of the conditions that can increase the risk of dying of the virus, including obesity, diabetes and hypertension.SUNY Downstate serves a population that is among the city’s poorest, with high rates of the conditions that can increase the risk of dying of the virus, including obesity, diabetes and hypertension.
“I’m concerned that this pandemic will exacerbate health care disparities for the patients we serve,” said Dr. Riley, who is in his third year as the hospital’s president. “The pandemic has a particular predilection for patients like ours.”“I’m concerned that this pandemic will exacerbate health care disparities for the patients we serve,” said Dr. Riley, who is in his third year as the hospital’s president. “The pandemic has a particular predilection for patients like ours.”
The deans of New York State’s 15 law schools issued an extraordinary plea, asking the state’s highest court to allow students graduating this year to practice law without taking the bar examination.The deans of New York State’s 15 law schools issued an extraordinary plea, asking the state’s highest court to allow students graduating this year to practice law without taking the bar examination.
The court, the Court of Appeals, announced last week that it was canceling the bar exam that had been scheduled for July because of the virus pandemic. On Tuesday, the court said the exam would be rescheduled for September.The court, the Court of Appeals, announced last week that it was canceling the bar exam that had been scheduled for July because of the virus pandemic. On Tuesday, the court said the exam would be rescheduled for September.
In the meantime, the court said, it would consider letting lower courts authorize law school graduates working under licensed lawyers to practice law in limited circumstances.In the meantime, the court said, it would consider letting lower courts authorize law school graduates working under licensed lawyers to practice law in limited circumstances.
The law school deans, in a letter sent Wednesday, asked the court to do more.The law school deans, in a letter sent Wednesday, asked the court to do more.
“Delay in the admission of our 2020 graduates to the New York bar,” they wrote, “is likely to cause our students profound harm in a time already marked by suffering, intensifying financial hardship and exacerbating the unfairness of their plight.”“Delay in the admission of our 2020 graduates to the New York bar,” they wrote, “is likely to cause our students profound harm in a time already marked by suffering, intensifying financial hardship and exacerbating the unfairness of their plight.”
The deans asked the court, at a minimum, to grant all students graduating this year provisional authorization to practice law for 18 months. If they do not pass the bar exam by then, the permission would be rescinded.The deans asked the court, at a minimum, to grant all students graduating this year provisional authorization to practice law for 18 months. If they do not pass the bar exam by then, the permission would be rescinded.
The deans also made a more ambitious request: that the court consider letting graduates working under licensed lawyers “seek admission to the bar without sitting for the bar examination.”The deans also made a more ambitious request: that the court consider letting graduates working under licensed lawyers “seek admission to the bar without sitting for the bar examination.”
Three weeks after the virus was first detected in New York City’s jails, including Rikers Island, four in 10 inmates were being held in quarantine as the number of cases continued to rise.Three weeks after the virus was first detected in New York City’s jails, including Rikers Island, four in 10 inmates were being held in quarantine as the number of cases continued to rise.
The latest quarantine figures were released late Wednesday by the city’s Board of Correction, which monitors the city’s jails.The latest quarantine figures were released late Wednesday by the city’s Board of Correction, which monitors the city’s jails.
Correction officials said separately that as of Thursday morning, 223 staff members, 231 inmates and 38 health care workers assigned to the jails had tested positive for the virus.Correction officials said separately that as of Thursday morning, 223 staff members, 231 inmates and 38 health care workers assigned to the jails had tested positive for the virus.
Inmates were now being screened for symptoms before being arraigned, board officials said.Inmates were now being screened for symptoms before being arraigned, board officials said.
Officials have moved to release about 900 detainees from the jails in the past two weeks to stem the virus’s spread. But inmates and correction staff members have said that conditions at the jails were still unsanitary.Officials have moved to release about 900 detainees from the jails in the past two weeks to stem the virus’s spread. But inmates and correction staff members have said that conditions at the jails were still unsanitary.
Inmates have found inventive ways to protect themselves, using diluted shampoo as a disinfectant and alcohol pads from a jail barber to sanitize phones.Inmates have found inventive ways to protect themselves, using diluted shampoo as a disinfectant and alcohol pads from a jail barber to sanitize phones.
Jail workers have complained about not having access to protective gear like masks and gloves, and about what they said was a failure to notify them when they had come into contact with a someone who had been infected.Jail workers have complained about not having access to protective gear like masks and gloves, and about what they said was a failure to notify them when they had come into contact with a someone who had been infected.
Reporting was contributed by Kevin Armstrong, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Maria Cramer, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Alan Feuer, Michael Gold, Corey Kilgannon, Adam Liptak, Jesse McKinley, Andy Newman, Jan Ransom, Brian M. Rosenthal, Andrea Salcedo, Michael Schwirtz, Eliza Shapiro, Matt Stevens, James Wagner and Michael Wilson.Reporting was contributed by Kevin Armstrong, Jonah Engel Bromwich, Maria Cramer, Luis Ferré-Sadurní, Alan Feuer, Michael Gold, Corey Kilgannon, Adam Liptak, Jesse McKinley, Andy Newman, Jan Ransom, Brian M. Rosenthal, Andrea Salcedo, Michael Schwirtz, Eliza Shapiro, Matt Stevens, James Wagner and Michael Wilson.