New York deploys mask squad to enforce COVID-19 protocols

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

• Rockdale and Orange counties getting immediate attention for the deployment of staff to curb COVID-19 second wave fears
• Ultra-orthodox Jewish communities situated in both counties have not followed health and safety protocols leading to the highest infection rates in NY 
• Workers who volunteer for the Mask Squad can get shifts starting December 5 and are eligible for overtime pay

Due to resurging fears of a COVID-19 second wave in Rockland and Orange Counties, the New York health department has put out an urgent appeal for front liners to perform critical outreach and COVID-19 safety rules.

On Monday, an email circulated throughout the office of health insurance programs stating, “The DOH is responsible for community outreach and enforcement of Executive Orders and regulations related to the use of face-coverings/masks and social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

The request went out to request personnel to volunteer for shifts for the counties from December 5 up to December 11, along with consequent weeks up to the New Year eligible for overtime pay. The two counties each have a sizeable massively-orthodox Jewish community that has opposed safety practices leading to the highest COVID infection rates in the state.

Rockland County has an infection rate of 5.8%, followed by Orange’s city, Newburgh, which has a rate of 7.78% similar to Orange-Monroe County with 7.8% infection rate. A more distressing infection rate of 8.16% comes from the Middletown area of Orange on Saturday.

Gary Holmes, the Health department spokesman, says that asking volunteers to redeploy to assist in the pandemic isn’t uncommon.

Holmes also said that DOH employees get redeployed to assist staff in enforcing COVID safety protocols at airports and drive-through testing locations.

Steve Neuhaus, the Orange County Executive, noted that the state police are currently involved in reinforcing the health safety rules and educating residents.

Neuhaus added, “It’s definitely a concerning increase as we’re starting to see coming from the Thanksgiving gathering.”

Meanwhile, Governor Cuomo stated, “It’s hard to find staff right now.” Additionally, he urged on Monday that if the infection rates and hospitalization rates don’t stabilize, then he would order the shutdown of indoor dining in New York City.

Source: New York Post