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NYC Test & Trace Corps Records Strongest Performance Since Start of Program While Simultaneously Addressing Clusters of COVID-19
Oct 29, 2020
As the City continues to address COVID-19 clusters in Brooklyn and Queens, the NYC Test & Trace Corps is recording its strongest performance since the start of the program. The program is surpassing initial benchmark goals in two key critical areas. 91 percent of all positive cases are now being reached citywide, with 78 percent of all cases completing full intake interviews. 98 percent of cases are in isolation compliance, confirming they have reported not having left their home since last time they spoke with contact tracers. To date, the program has also prevented up to 25,000 potential new COVID-19 cases.
“We know that a strong program of testing and tracing is our best defense against the virus,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. “To prevent a second wave, New Yorkers must remain vigilant and stop the spread together.”
The latest data, which covers the period from October 4 through 17, represents the strongest performance recorded since the Test & Trace Corps launched in June. In addition to the performance around reaching positive cases and cases completing full intake, the period recorded the highest percentage to date of contacts who complete intake, at 72 percent.
“Addressing the three COVID clusters in NYC has pressure tested our contact tracing system. Even with the clusters, Test & Trace Corps has recorded its strongest performance since the start of the program,” said Test & Trace Corps Executive Director Dr. Ted Long. “We have seen substantial improvement in the clusters, and we will remain vigilant with hyperlocal efforts to break the chains of transmission of the virus moving forward.”
The Test & Trace Corps is the City’s comprehensive effort to test and trace every case of COVID-19. Through a partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, the Corps allows the City to immediately isolate and care for those who test positive for the virus and then rapidly track, assess, and quarantine anyone they may have infected.
To help all New Yorkers safely separate at home and monitor their health status, the Take Care pillar of the Test & Trace Corps also offers free hotel rooms with wraparound services for New Yorkers who are unable to safely separate in their own homes. For those safely separating at home, contact tracers perform daily calls and conduct in-person visits as necessary. These calls allow tracers to gauge the progress of cases, ensure proper compliance with separation protocol, and connect people to more supportive services as necessary. Today, 98% of all COVID-19 cases and 96% of contacts reported following isolation and quarantine requirements during their conversation with a contact tracer.