Mayor Bill de Blasio announced Tuesday during his daily briefing that new restrictions are on the horizon and could come in a matter of days to battle the surge in COVID-19 cases.
The mayor says he's constantly talking with the state about implementing restrictions. He says there is an "urgency" to moving forward with restrictions, and a need to work on a vaccine distribution plan.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams wants the closures put into place immediately. In a letter to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, Williams stated that he wants all nonessential businesses closed, including in-person dining, hair salons, gyms and houses of worship. Williams also wants coordinated closures with New Jersey and Connecticut. In addition, his letter states that all residents should be required to wear a mask when leaving their homes and when in contact with others they don't live with.
Mayor de Blasio says the seven-day rolling positivity rate is 4.94%, just under the 5% threshold. He says it's crucial to get tested for COVID-19, calling today "Get Tested Tuesday."
The mayor says he believes that after 10 months there is finally an end in sight to this crisis. He says New Yorkers need to get through Dec. and Jan. and then the vaccine will do its job. He says the vaccine is set to arrive in the city next week.
Mayor de Blasio also urged New Yorkers to donate blood.