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New York Mayor Bill De Blasio said Sunday that people should work from home, if possible, or stagger work schedules in an effort to cut down on crowds amid the coronavirus outbreak.
In a series of tweets, De Blasio laid out some suggestions on how to “protect yourself and your neighbors” from the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
“We need everyone to do their part in reducing overcrowding,” he said. “I know that sounds impossible in New York City, but consider some basic steps like telecommuting if your job allows it. Stagger work schedules so people can arrive later or leave earlier to beat the busiest times of rush hour. Plan to have some extra travel time in your commute. If the train that pulls up is too packed, move to a different car or wait to take the next one. Bike or walk to work if you can.”
Also, “for the foreseeable future don’t shake hands — I know that sounds unusual but it’s an easy way to reduce risk,” he tweeted.
His tweets were followed by a statement from NYC Health, the city’s health department, reiterating those suggestions.
Other precautions from NYC Health and De Blasio: Wash your hands with soap and water, and don’t touch your face; stay at home if you feel sick; avoid crowds if you have chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease or a weakened immune system — and if you’re sick, avoid seeing people with chronic conditions.
While at least two private schools in Manhattan were closed Friday over coronavirus concerns, De Blasio said Friday that there are no plans to close public schools, the New York Times reported.
NYC Health added that as of Sunday afternoon, 13 people had tested positive for the coronavirus, while 146 had tested negative and 75 test results were pending.
