Mayor Announces Oneonta’s Precautionary Outlook For Coronavirus

Today, Mayor Gary Herzig from the City of Oneonta released a statement on how the city is taking precautionary measures to protect residents in case the Coronavirus (COVID-19) makes its way here.

The following is a message from City of Oneonta Mayor Gary Herzig:

As most are aware, there have been two confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) announced in New York State this week – both in the Greater New York City area. While there is presently no reason for fear in our local community, the City of Oneonta will take all recommended precautions. I have asked Oneonta’s Health Officer, Dr. Diane Georgeson to keep us informed on updates from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and she will be in communication and coordinating any City response with the Infection Control and Prevention Staff at AO Fox Hospital.

For communities such as ours, with no confirmed cases of this new virus, the following common sense precautions are recommended to prevent the spread of COVID-19 or other contagious diseases:

 Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are
not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
 Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
 Stay home when you are sick.
 Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.
 Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, like your cell phone.

Taking these simple precautionary measures will not only serve to keep you healthy but will protect our entire community from widespread outbreak. In addition, Governor Cuomo has stated that new cleaning protocols for school and public transportation will be instituted. We plan to adhere to these on our City buses and I am confident that our local schools will do the same.

The public can call the Department of Health's coronavirus hotline at 1-888-364-3065 with any concerns about symptoms or travel. In addition, visit the Department of Health's dedicated website for more resources and updates about COVID-19.