New York's COVID-19 numbers continue to improve, as Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that the state's seven-day average positivity rate has fallen to 0.73%, the lowest rate since the start of the pandemic. 

The previous low was 0.75% on August 24-25. 

"Our numbers have been trending in the right direction, reaching a record low since the start of this pandemic, and they continue to do so because of what the people of this state have done," Governor Cuomo said in a statement. "I encourage those who haven't yet received their vaccination to take advantage of ongoing incentive programs and do so. The vaccine is the best defense we have against COVID and now is the best time to do what needs to be done to protect our communities."

This marks 54 consecutive days of declining seven-day average positivity rates.

Hospitalizations and intubations continue to fall as well. Across the state, the 1,143 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 is the lowest total since October 31. 267 people are in an ICU, which is the lowest number since October 31. The 158 people intubated statewide is also the fewest total since November 173.

The governor also provided an update on the state's effort to vaccinate residents against COVID-19. 76,027 vaccine doses have been administered in the past 24 hours, and 611,745 doses have been administered over the past seven days, Cuomo announced.

"The COVID vaccine is the weapon that will win the war, and the faster everyone takes it, the faster we defeat this beast and return to normal," Cuomo said in a statement. "While thousands of New Yorkers are getting their vaccine every day, the overall vaccination rate has slowed and we are exploring any and all options to get more shots in arms. From the establishment of pop-up sites to the implementation of vaccine incentives, it's never been easier, or more beneficial, to get vaccinated. So, if you have not yet received your shot, please do the right thing and go get vaccinated—if we are to reach the light at the end of the tunnel, everyone needs to do their part."

64.9% of all New Yorkers age 18 and older have received at least one vaccine dose, and 56.3% have completed their vaccine series. When it comes to New Yorkers of all ages, 53.3% have received at least one dose and 45.3% have completed their vaccine series.

To view New York's COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker, click here.