On Friday the Chenango Department of Health reported there were 55 positive COVID cases in Chenango County, and on Tuesday that number had risen to 89, an increase of 34. (Photo by Tyler Murphy)

CHENANGO COUNTY – Since Friday Chenango County health officials have reported 34 new COVID-19 cases and two more deaths related to COVID.

According to Chenango County Director of Environmental Health and Code Enforcement Isaiah Sutton, the public should see these increases in cases and losses as a call to do better.

On Friday the department reported there were 55 positive COVID cases in Chenango County, and on Tuesday that number had risen to 89, an increase of 34.

“Each loss in this pandemic brings into stark focus its reality and severity,” said Sutton. “Our deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of the deceased.”

“We all must continue to follow best practices and make good decisions to protect ourselves and those around us.”

Sutton said the Chenango County Health Department would like to let Chenango County residents know that they are preparing for a possible spike in COVID-19 cases through the holiday season.

He said individuals who are tested positive for COVID-19 will continue to be asked about who they have come into contact with and where they’ve been as part of the contact tracing program.

“Contract tracing is helping us limit the spread of the virus by identifying people who may potentially be infected,” said Sutton. “People are compelled to share that information, and we generally don’t have issues with people sharing that because they understand the public safety risks.”