New York City is issuing a coronavirus related advisory recommending masks in public indoor settings. Health Commissioner Dr. Dave Chokshi is strongly recommending all New Yorkers wear a mask in all public places such as stores and offices regardless of vaccination status.
“We are seeing an increase in cases with the colder weather as well as the persistence of Delta and the fact that omicron is over the horizon.”
Chokshi says the city is preparing to deal with omicron, a new variant of concern out of South Africa. Meanwhile, there’s a new vaccine mandate. Mayor de Blasio says more than 100 thousand employees who work in childcare and early intervention programs must get the shot by December 20th with no testing option.