Putnam County’s high vaccination rate continues to increase

Putnam County Executive MaryEllen Odell is pleased to announce that, as the county’s high vaccination rate continues to increase, residents will soon be able to gather in larger groups, indoors and out.

“With more than half of Putnam’s eligible residents having received at least one dose of their COVID vaccine, we welcome the loosening of state restrictions and the chance to gather again for social occasions,” County Executive Odell said. “Let’s keep going, Putnam! Our hard work has paid off. Our local case numbers have declined and hospitalizations remain low. The more people who get vaccinated, the sooner we can get life back to normal.”

These changes in state restrictions go into effect May 19:

• No more limitations on outdoor residential gatherings
• Indoor residential gatherings can include up to 50 people
• Outdoor social gathering limit increases to 500
• Indoor social gathering limit increases to 250
• Business capacity limits to be replaced by social distancing limits

Putnam County Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD, said that a novel virus, a pandemic, development of a vaccine -- are new and unusual experiences for us all. Trusted sources of information, like healthcare providers, can help undecided adults or parents of children gather the facts and make the informed choice to vaccinate.

“Vaccination has been, and continues to be, a major player in the path forward,” Dr. Nesheiwat said. “While new COVID cases have declined most among older residents, we are seeing an increase in the proportion of cases coming from 10- to 19-year-olds. Now 16- and 17-year-olds are eligible to receive the Pfizer vaccine, and 12 through 15-year-olds will soon be eligible. Additionally, all people 18 and older can get either the Moderna or the Johnson and Johnson vaccines.”

Keeping the vaccination momentum going can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable summer for all. For the most up-to-date local vaccination information, visit: https://www.putnamcountyny.com/covid-19-vaccine-information/