Albany County now has 136 confirmed cases of COVID-19, County Executive Dan McCoy said Tuesday morning, up slightly from 122 on Monday.

  • Seven people remain hospitalized. Those hospitalized include three men and four women between the ages of 52 and 90. Three are in ICU.
  • The county’s positive test rate right now is under 5% and he credits social distancing and proper hygiene.

Despite the increase in cases and statewide stay-at-home directives, McCoy said too many people are still going out. He is asking people to stay home and six feet away from others to slow the spread down. The recent snowfall, he said, is helping keep children away from each other at neighborhood playgrounds.

  • McCoy said Tuesday is “Great American Take-Out Day” for restaurants. He is asking people to patronize their favorite take-out restaurant and go home to eat. 
  • He thanked corporations and organizations for donating emergency supplies to first responders.
  • McCoy is urging people to use helpline if you need to talk. Call (518) 269 - 6634.
  • The American Red Cross needs blood badly. Call by appointment only. Just call 1-800- RED -CROSS.

Albany County Health Department Commissioner Dr. Elizabeth Whalen said they are not getting a true picture of what’s happening in the community. She said testing isn’t a true indicator of the true extent of this pandemic.

  • Whalen stressed the importance of social distancing and the impact this virus is having in other countries, which are struggling to keep up with the response.
  • She remains concerned about overwhelming the health care system with mass transmission if people do not stay home.
  • Hospitals are still testing for COVD-19, just not doing widespread testing.
  • Whalen says most people are listening, but not everyone. She is encouraging every single citizen to adhere to emergency recommendations.