Steuben County is dealing with an outbreak of positive COVID-19 cases.
Public health officials worry that what they are seeing is a second wave.
At the moment there are more than 245 active cases. It’s a number that’s been steadily on the rise since early-September when the first cases were identified at a local nursing home.
“We definitely are seeing some alarming increases in the numbers,” said Public Health Director Darlene Smith told 13WHAM. “I do think this is our second wave. I certainly hope it is because if it’s not and a different second wave is still coming, that could be a big problem.”
Her contention is that a major reason for the uptick is residents disregarding the essential practices to keep the virus down. For example, large parties have been reported – where people are gathering in a way that isn’t safe. Additionally, a lack of mask wearing.
Officials say 20 employees from Upstate Farms Cheese, which is located in Campbell also tested positive. This hotspot is in addition to the Corning Center for Rehabilitation location.
The County says there are approximately 900 people in quarantine or isolation.
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