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Cuomo: 'This is not the time to fight for your right to party'

Gov. Cuomo says health officials are monitoring a surge in confirmed cases among the age group of people 20 to 31 years old.

NEW YORK — Following a recent surge in young people testing positive for COVID-19, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo is calling on local officials to enforce social gathering orders.

Cuomo says health officials are monitoring a surge in confirmed cases among the age group of 20 to 31 years old. He addressed young adults, telling them that they're risking the lives of others. "This is not the time to fight for your right to party," he said.

He announced Thursday the New York State Police will lead a task for with the New York State Liquor Authority to investigate and shut down any establishment not complying with safety standards.

The state is also launching a new ad campaign reminding young people that they can catch COVID-19 and to be smart.

There were nearly 70,000 COVID-19 tests performed statewide Wednesday. Of those tested, 811 came back positive, or 1.16%). COVID-19 hospitalizations continue to fall to 702. Thirteen people died Thursday of COVID-19 related illness.

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Human coronaviruses are usually spread through...

•    The air by coughing or sneezing

•    Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands

•    Touching an object or surface with the virus on it, then touching your mouth, nose or eyes before washing your hands.

Help stop the spread of coronavirus 

•    Stay home when you are sick.

•    Eat and sleep separately from your family members

•    Use different utensils and dishes

•    Cover your cough or sneeze with your arm, hot your hand.

•    If you use a tissue, throw it in the trash.

Lower your risk

•    Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

•    Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

•    Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

•    Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

•    If you are 60 or over and have an underlying health condition such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes or respiratory illnesses like asthma or COPD, the World Health Organization advises you to try to avoid crowds or places where you might interact with people who are sick.

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