Tioga Public Health has reported 42 new COVID-19 infections in the county in the last seven days, most of which are unvaccinated. According to the CDC, our county is now designated as an area with substantial community
transmission of the COVID-19 virus.
In areas with substantial or high transmission of the virus, the CDC recommends everyone wear a mask in public indoor settings, including those who are fully vaccinated, and that all eligible people get vaccinated.
While Tioga County followed New York State Guidelines throughout the pandemic, we are now following
CDC Guidelines, as current guidelines have not yet been released by the state. With this trend of new
COVID-19 infections being seen both locally and nationally, we encourage everyone to follow CDC
recommendations and continue practicing preventative measures to help minimize the spread:
Stay home if you are sick and contact your primary care provider
Practice social distancing while in public and avoid crowded areas
Wash your hands
Get vaccinated – vaccines help prevent serious disease
Wear a mask in public indoor settings, regardless of vaccination status
Get tested if you are having symptoms of COVID-19
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects
We all have a personal responsibility to protect ourselves and to be mindful of vulnerable people in our community, especially children under 12 who are currently ineligible to get vaccinated.
The increase of new COVID-19 infections is now leading to questions regarding the opening of schools in the fall. Last week, Dr. Howard Zucker, NYS Commissioner of Health, announced that “Schools and school districts should develop plans to open in-person in the fall as safely as possible.” A preliminary meeting has already taken place between our department and all school superintendents in Tioga County. We all share a common goal to have the least disruptive school year as possible and maximize in-person learning days for our students.
We will continuously work together with our school districts as the 2021–2022 school year approaches, and will provide support as students begin returning to the classroom.
For more information regarding your school’s reopening plans, please visit the school district’s website or
contact them directly. We will continue to provide COVID-19 information and updates to our Facebook
page (@Tioga County Public Health) and our website: ph.tiogacountyny.gov
