Monroe County reported 4,094 new COVID-19 cases Wednesday, reflecting the much-anticipated holiday surge. Of these, 2,270 were home tests.
One week ago, 754 new cases were reported.
The data show the county’s plan to provide rapid tests is at work, said Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Michael Mendoza M.D., public health commissioner in a joint statement.
There are 531 patients who are hospitalized with COVID, compared with 502 a week ago; 121 are in intensive care, down from 138.
Monroe County was able to buy and distribute more than 750,000 rapid antigen tests to residents. In addition to launching its Vax-Boost-Mask initiative, the county has increased testing and vaccination sites and is currently supplying KN95 masks to essential employees and first responders.
The latest surge will result in some rolling closures and restrictions at schools, businesses and health care services, officials said.
Smriti Jacob is Rochester Beacon managing editor.