The State’s adopted COVID-19 micro-cluster strategy outlines the new rules and restrictions which directly target areas with the highest transmission of COVID-19 cases and surrounding communities. Now identified are two new yellow cluster zones in the Bronx, which must now comply with the relevant yellow zone restriction measures outlined on the State health department website, outlined here.

Meanwhile, the governor said that Western New York, with a 4.84 percent test positivity rate across a 7-day average, is of particular concern. “Remember, as New Yorkers, we decide our own destiny,” he said.

“What happens next is not written in stone. Help combat ‘living room spread’ by avoiding gatherings with people outside of your household. Get tested if you have symptoms or have reason to believe you were exposed to the virus. Wear a mask, particularly indoors, and stay New York Tough.”

In terms of the upcoming holiday, the governor announced that the number of guests at Thanksgiving gatherings must be no more than 10 people, and provided the following overview of COVID updates.

1. New cluster zone restrictions went into effect for businesses today. The changes include two new Yellow Zones in the Bronx, a new Orange Zone in Erie County, a new Yellow Zone in North Tonawanda, NY, and an expanded Yellow Zone in Queens. See which restrictions apply in which color of zone here. See all the maps here.

2. The positivity rate in the micro-cluster focus areas was 4.55 percent. Excluding these areas, it was 2.15 percent. Of the 205,466 tests reported yesterday, 5,468, or 2.66 percent, were positive. Total hospitalizations rose to 2,348. Sadly, 32 New Yorkers were lost to the virus.

3. Yesterday, New York reported a record-high number of tests, at 205,466, a new record. Testing is one of the best tools against this virus. New Yorkers can search for a testing site near you here or can also call 1-888-364-3065 to make an appointment at a New York State-run testing location.

4. Small business owners can check if they are eligible for New York State support programs or incentives. There are a number of business incentives that small business owners may be able to take advantage of. To get started, simply answer questions about your business and New York’s Business Express Incentive Wizard will provide a list of New York State programs and services that could help your business get off the ground.