Rising COVID-19 positivity rates across the Southern Tier have health leaders in Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties on high alert.

What You Need To Know

  • Chautauqua County does not have any zip codes that would put it in a yellow zone
  • Cattaraugus County reporting a sharp uptick in cases at St. Bonaventure University
  • Allegany County health leaders urging vigilance this holiday season
​

"We all have a part to play in this," said Christine Schuyler, Chautauqua County public health director.

Schuyler was part of a virtual COVID-19 town hall meeting Tuesday from Mayville.

Schuyler says Chautauqua County does not have any zip codes or areas that could lead the state to declare the area a micro-cluster, yellow zone.

"Which is very good news and again goes back to all the diligent work the vast majority of our population and visitors are doing to keep our infection rates low," said Schuyler.

Schuyler says should the county ever meet the metrics for a yellow-zone designation, it will have a negative impact on the community.

"Restrictions that will occur. It will impact our schools, it'll impact our businesses. Why it is so absolutely important that we continue to remain vigilant," said Schuyler.

"And we are concerned as students are preparing to go back home for Thanksgiving," said Dr. Kevin Watkins, Cattaraugus County public health director.

Dr. Watkins on Tuesday reported a sharp uptick in cases and contacts at St. Bonaventure University, and says those students, likely not following safety guidelines, will have to stay on campus. 

Watkins adds the state has also sent another 500 rapid testing kits, as he's not overly concerned yet about being a micro-cluster, but urges a safe holiday season.

"But we must be vigilant about the increased numbers we are seeing. We can make it even safer if we do not have those large gatherings and we just limit the size of those family gatherings so that we do not spread this virus to our loved ones," said Dr. Watkins.

"The Allegany Department of Health is worried. We're waiting to hear what the state has to say about designated zones and if Allegany County becomes one in the yellow," said Theresa Moore, Allegany County supervising public health educator.

Moore says she is concerned about the increased positivity rate and its impact on schools, nursing homes, and health care facilities.

She says many residents have stopped taking precautions and following safety guidelines, which is why she's urging everyone to avoid set-backs and scale down events as well as gatherings, and stay vigilant during the holiday and shopping season.

"This will help us protect our people in the county, protect our elderly, our children in school districts. And I think that is the best thing we can do for this county," said Moore.

Moore says rapid testing clinics for those who pre-register will be held this Thursday and next Wednesday.