FRANKLIN COUNTY EMERGENCY OPERATION CENTER
COVID-19 UPDATE

Malone, NY – Franklin County Public Health Director Katie Strack today announced a change in the reporting of COVID -19 confirmed cases. The new reporting will more closely reflect the recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) and are being adopted by the surrounding counties as well. From this date forward, the confirmed cases will include the number of positive cases, and an additional number of cases that are “Suspect”. Suspect cases will include those individuals that have had a confirmed primary contact with a known positive individual or an individual that is exhibiting the signs and symptoms of COVID-19. This new reporting system should more accurately reflect the number of infected individuals and how the virus is progressing. Franklin County Public Health along with the Franklin County Emergency Operation Center reports that there are 9 individuals with confirmed cases of COVID-19 and an additional 22 suspect cases in Franklin County. There are an additional 130 individuals quarantined/isolated awaiting test results, have close contact with a positive individual or exhibiting mild symptoms. Additionally, 153 tests have been returned negative and have been removed from the list. The Department of Public Health expects these statistics to increase dramatically in the coming days. Franklin County Public Health is asking the public to assist in the County Health Strategy and help mitigate exposure and prevent community spreading of COVID-19. The Department of Health makes the following recommendations and requests:   

• Everyone should take COVID-19 very seriously. It is a highly contagious virus that can cause severe illness and/or death
• All businesses - please help enforce social distancing inside and outside of your locations. Do not allow your customers to congregate and insist on at least 6 feet of distancing between individuals.
• Landlords with buildings that contain a number of residences – Please discourage your tenants from gathering in common areas and encourage social distancing. Sanitize common areas and items frequently.
• Employers if you are aware of an employee that has been out of New York State and is returning, please advise them of the recommendation that he/she should self-quarantine for 14 days.
• This virus is transmitted quickly and may be carried by an individual for several days before any symptoms develop. Assume everyone is positive and protect yourself accordingly.
• Check on neighbors or anyone that may have limited access to transportation or supplies. Help is available.

Services are available for anyone that may need additional help while being isolated at home.

• Information regarding COVID-19, request general services or to volunteer please contact the Franklin County Emergency Services COVID-19 Hotline – 518-481-1111 or email eoccallcenter@franklincony.org.
• The Alice Hyde Medical Center has established a Hotline for anyone with medical questions surrounding COVID-19 – 518-481-2700
• Franklin County Office for the Aging is delivering meals to any Franklin County resident 60 years of age or older.  Please contact OFA at 518-481-1526
• Franklin County Department of Social Services and is able to assist with temporary assistance, financial aid or other unmet needs. To speak with a case worker please call 518- 481-1894 or 518-481-1806.
• Behavioral Health Services are available. Please contact 518-521-5818.  Individuals in crisis should contact 518-891-5535 or 518-483-3261.

Everyone is reminded to: 
 

• Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Avoid physical contact like handshakes and hugs
• Abstain from unnecessary travel
• Stay home (stay unexposed and do not expose others)
• Only go out for essential services
• Stay six feet or more away from others
• Don’t gather in groups

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