mask

The city is averaging about 1,100 daily emergency department visits due to flu-like illness, which is double the number from late October.

Here’s what families should know about the changes in COVID-19 protocols during the third school year under the pandemic.

“We urge you to take the following proven precautions to protect your family and our communities: wear a mask," a letter from the schools chancellor and health commissioner read.

City officials cited an uptick in cases driven by the BA.2 subvariant as the reason for the decision.

Gothamist looks at how cherry-picking science became the center of the anti-mask movement in politics and media and then reviews the evidence on the effectiveness of masks and if they cause physical harm.

With the legal battle ongoing, there’s some confusion about the current status of the state mask mandate and what it means for teachers, students, retail workers and others who might be affected.

Experts say the pandemic is transitioning into an endemic, mostly for the better unless you’re still unvaccinated.

Dr. Mary Bassett, who was once New York City’s health commissioner, is advising everyone to get booster shots if eligible, wear masks indoors and get tested before attending family gatherings.

City-run testing sites will also be open seven days per week, and free at-home tests will be available to those waiting in long lines.

Governor Kathy Hochul made the announcement Friday, saying all indoor businesses and venues must require either masks or full vaccination among patrons and staff.