With Recent COVID-19 Clusters, New York City Hatzalah Publishes Advisory

by CrownHeights.info

With the recent concerning spike in the number of COVID-19 cases found in the Jewish communities of New York City, Central Hatzalah has published an advisory to the Jewish community.

“Over the last few weeks, we have seen a steady and dramatic rise in COVID-19 cases in our community, with a recent alarming increase in severity and hospitalizations – including ICU admissions,” the board of hatzalah wrote. “We must all do our part today to help control the spread of this potentially deadly virus!”

The advisory lists the following steps necessary to contain the virus:

  • WEAR A MASK PROPERLY (covering mouth and nose) in cases where strict social distancing cannot be practiced.
  • Follow recommended social distancing precautions and guidelines from the CDC, State and Local Governments, and other healthcare professionals.
  • Large gatherings of any kind must be avoided.
  • If you are feeling sick, STAY HOME.

The board addressed a worrisome issue many are facing, which is whether to go to a hospital or not if a person becomes sick.

“There are some advanced therapies being used now in the hospitals (i.e., Remdesivir, Convalescent Plasma, Steroids, etc.) that may not have been available during the initial outbreak. Some of these treatments are proven to be more effective if given early in the course of the disease,” they wrote. “While we understand the hesitancy to go to the hospital for COVID-19, it is important to realize that there have been many changes in the hospital system since the initial outbreak. With the advanced therapies that are now available, it is important that if you are ill, you consult your doctor for guidance.”