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Wastewater testing shows that COVID-19 cases are climbing in Suffolk County, the county’s health department revealed Thursday, Dec. 22.
Testing found “substantial to high” levels of the virus at sewage treatment plants near Babylon, Gordon Heights, and Mount Sinai, according to a graphic shared by the health department on Twitter.
Such increases in wastewater can be seen as early as three to seven days before cases and hospitalizations are actually confirmed, health officials added.
According to the state Department of Health, Long Island reported a seven-day average of 44.33 cases per 100,000 people as of Wednesday, Dec. 21.
The region’s seven-day average percentage of positive test results reported was 9.29 percent.
Thirty-nine COVID-related deaths were reported across New York on Wednesday, Dec. 21, officials said.
Gov. Kathy Hochul encouraged people to follow preventative measures to protect themselves against COVID-19, as well as the flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and to reduce the burden on local hospitals.
"As New Yorkers gather together this holiday season, I urge everyone to remain vigilant and continue to use all available tools to keep themselves, their loved ones and their communities safe and healthy," Hochul said in a statement.
"Test before gatherings and travel, and stay up to date on vaccine doses. If you test positive, talk to your doctor about potential treatment options."
More information on COVID-19 testing and vaccines can be found on the New York State Department of Health website.
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