Coronavirus Update: Nassau County declares state of emergency as cases rise
NASSAU COUNTY (WABC) -- Nassau County declared a state of emergency as the number of coronavirus cases has risen to 48, with most located in Hempstead.
Officials say 34 of the patients are located in the town of Hempstead, 10 in the town of North Hempstead, and 4 in the town of Oyster Bay.
Nassau County Executive Laura Curran announced several recreational facilities and other public spaces across the county, including:
--Nassau County Aquatic Center
--Cantiague ice rink
--Cradle of Aviation
--Children's Museum
--Old Bethpage Village Restoration
--Nassau County pistol range
--Christopher Morley Tennis in Roslyn
She also announced that the county would be stopping the boot and tow program and eviction proceedings.
"Don't be scared, be prepared," Town of Hempstead Supervisor Donald Clavin said.
In Suffolk County, Executive Steve Bellone declared a state of emergency on Thursday.
Officials confirmed 28 residents with coronavirus, with 10 of them in mandatory isolation in the hospital.
Diocese of Rockville Centre schools will be closed through March 20, with Monday, March 16, being a professional development day.
Meantime, PSEG Long Island announced that they are temporarily suspending shut-offs of electric service to residential customers for non-payment. This policy is effective immediately, and the utility said it was being done in the interest of protecting public health,
Officials are also asking residents to take an extra step to prevent the spread of germs:
--Use hand sanitizer stations available at NICE transit hubs.
--Wash your hands with soap and water when available.
--Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
--Consider an elbow bump, wave or a smile when greeting people.
--Spread out - a cough or sneeze can spread germs far distances so try to not sit directly next to someone when possible.
--Cover your mouth when sneezing or coughing.
--If you feel sick, stay home.
--Call (don't visit) your health care provider if you think you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Symptoms include fever, shortness of breath and coughing.
INTERACTIVE: What we know about COVID-19 - US map, prevention, cases
Latest Coronavirus News
Latest news on coronavirus in New York and New York City
Latest news on the New Jersey coronavirus cases
Latest news on Connecticut coronavirus COVID-19
----------
* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts
