This week, Governor Andrew Cuomo outlined modifications to some current focus zones, established new ones in areas where there are recent upticks in cases, and set criteria for areas to exit a focus zone. The governor announced that "cluster zone" focus areas are designated based on geographic case prevalence and restrictions are implemented accordingly based on the severity of spread. Buffer zones with fewer restrictions are implemented in the areas outside the most impacted areas to help prevent further spread. The governor indicated that after 14 days, data will be reviewed to determine whether a focus area has successfully reduced viral spread to the level where restrictions can be eased.
Changes to cluster zones and new cluster zones take effect on Monday for impacted schools. Per the state, schools that are in the “yellow zones” will need to implement weekly randomized testing. For more information, click here.
