The number of people who are hospitalized related to COVID-19 in New York has continued to fall statewide as the omicron variant surge this winter abates. 

Data provided by Gov. Kathy Hochul's office on Thursday showed there are now more hospitalized patients who were admitted for reasons other than COVID-19 than there are people who were admitted because of the virus or related complications. 

All together, there are 4,398 people who are hospitalized in the state and have COVID-19. Less than half, or 2,189 people, were admitted because of COVID-19 or COVID-related complications. 

There were 72 confirmed COVID-19 deaths in the last 24 hours in New York. 

"While we are seeing cases and hospitalizations continue to decline in New York State, this pandemic is not over and we must remain vigilant to protect our vulnerable loved ones," Hochul said. "Let's continue to use the tools we know protect ourselves and vulnerable loved ones from this virus - the vaccine, booster, masks and tests. We must continue to be adaptable and responsive to the changing circumstances, which is why our new Winter Toolkit focuses on how we safely and responsibly move forward in this pandemic: Protecting the most vulnerable, increasing our vaccine and booster doses, strengthening the healthcare system, empowering local leaders and supporting New Yorkers who are dealing with long term effects of COVID."

State health officials this winter limited elective surgeries and other procedures amid a staffed bed shortage at dozens of hospitals as a result of what had been a steep rise in patients.

The state began differentiating between different types of COVID patients in hospitals late last year. The omicron variant has been considered a less severe version of COVID, especially for people who have been fully vaccinated and boosted. 

Older people, as well as the unvaccinated or immunocompromised were nevertheless considered vulnerable. 

New York's indoor mask mandate for businesses officially lapsed on Thursday following a steep decline in new COVID-19 cases as well as the hospitalizations in the last several weeks. 

Mask rules remain in effect, however, for schools, as well as on public transportation, hospitals and health care centers as well as prisons and homeless shelters. 

Hochul on Wednesday said the school mask mandate would remain in effect until at least early March when it would be reassessed.