MAYVILLE – No people have tested positive for the novel Coronavirus as of 4 p.m. Thursday, according to an announcement from Chautauqua County officials during a press conference.
“I am assuming the novel Coronavirus is circulating here (in Chautauqua County),” Chautauqua County Commissioner of Health Christine Schuyler said. “We know the virus is in our communities. That’s called community spread.”
“If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others.”
There are 35 people in precautionary quarantine, according to Schuyler. Schuyler acknowledged there’s no vaccine.
Schuyler said the county has “very limited” supplies for testing. She adds that she recommended to health care providers to be selective for who should be tested.
Schuyler says officials have worked to reach out to the local Amish community throughout the situation. She says their schools are currently closed.
Schuyler, however, said it’s important for the panic to be “dampened.”
Chautauqua County Executive P.J. Wendel said that there isn’t a definitive time for businesses to return to normal. Wendel said state officials will re-assess the situation in two week cycles.
Wendel said, as soon as his office receives more information, he’ll release it to the public.
The County Executive is asking people to take preventative measures, like washing hands, and be safe.
“We have to be in our best fighting condition,” Schuyler adds.
When asked if the County should cancel the Chautauqua Institution season, he said it would be “a little premature.” Wendel adds that President Michael Hill has coordinated with the County throughout the process.
State Senator George Borrello, during the conference, called for New York State to utilize Lakeshore Hospital during the pandemic.
Dr. Robert Burke said that cooperation between officials has been “marvelous.” Burke, along with Schuyler, Sheriff Jim Quatttrone and Wendel, are a part of a Coronavirus task force.
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