Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy provided the latest report on the county’s progress on vaccinations and controlling the spread of the Coronavirus. As of yesterday, 69.3% of all Albany County residents have received at least the first dose, and 63.7% have been fully vaccinated. The first dose vaccination rate for the county’s 18+ population is now up to 80.2%. More information on vaccination rates can be found at the New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker at the link here.  Through August 29th, the Albany County Department of Health has administered and reallocated nearly 73,000 doses of vaccine. 
 
County Executive McCoy announced that the total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Albany County is now at 26,540 to date, with 64 new positive cases identified since yesterday. The county’s five-day average of new daily positive cases is now down to 83.8. Please note that our overall case count will fluctuate as CommCare records are transferred in and out of the county. Albany County’s most recent seven-day average of percent positive rates is now up to 5.0%, and the Capital Region’s rate is still to 4.6%.

Among the new cases of COVID identified in the county, 30 had close contacts to positive cases, 30 did not have clear sources of infection at this time, two reported traveling out of state, and two are healthcare workers or residents of congregate living settings. There are now 494 active cases in the county, up from 472 yesterday. The number of people under mandatory quarantine increased to 780 from 772. So far, 84,472 people have completed quarantine to date. Of those who completed quarantine, 26,046 of them had tested positive and recovered – an increase of 37 additional recoveries.
 
The County Executive reported that there were five new hospitalizations since yesterday, and 27 county residents remain hospitalized with the virus. There are still eight patients. Sadly, there is one new COVID death to report – a woman in her 50’s. The death toll for Albany County stands at 393 since the outbreak began.

“Every time I announce a life lost to COVID-19, it is with great sadness and I extend my condolences to the latest Albany County family that is grieving,” said County Executive McCoy. “Getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones. There are breakthrough cases but in general, the symptoms are less severe. Of the 27 people currently hospitalized, the hospital reports us that 44% are fully vaccinated, 4% are partially vaccinated and 52% are not vaccinated.”
  
Albany County continues to deliver vaccines to homebound residents, which includes seniors, disabled individuals, those lacking childcare and those with other accessibility issues. Anyone who would like to schedule a time for a vaccine appointment should call (518) 447-7198.
 
Residents can also receive free Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines Monday through Friday, 9am - 3pm, each week at the Albany County Department of Health, 175 Green Street. The 12+ population is currently eligible. No appointments are needed and walk-ins are welcome.  Those 12 to 15 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. A follow up second dose clinic will be scheduled at the time of the first dose appointment. Free transportation is available for anyone at least 60 years old (and a caregiver), by calling the County Department for Aging in advance at (518) 447-7198.
 
For those who would like additional information on vaccinations and vaccination clinics organized by Albany County, please use the link here. Residents who want a shot from a state-run facility should use the state's website at the link here or call the state vaccine hotline at 1-833-697-4829. Walk-ins are welcome at state-run facilities. For general information on the vaccine, residents can also dial the United Way of the Greater Capital Region’s 2-1-1 hotline or the Albany County Department of Health at (518) 447-4580.