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Nassau County To Boost Hospital Capacity, Secure Supplies

Desiree D'Iorio
/
WSHU
Nassau County Executive Laura Curran gives an update on the county's COVID-19 response at Nassau's Office of Emergency Management on Monday.

Nassau County officials say hospitals and first responders are prepared to treat patients with COVID-19-related symptoms, and respond to emergency calls. 

County Executive Laura Curran says work is underway to expand hospital capacity. 

“We're working directly with our healthcare networks to assist them in getting their necessary supplies, which includes tents and materials for outdoor triage stations.” 

Governor Andrew Cuomo says Nassau County needs 1,000 more hospital beds to handle the influx in patients.

Curran also wants to increase testing capabilities to test 6,000 people per day. Plans are in the works to open a drive-through test site, likely at Jones Beach.

9-1-1 dispatch operators have changed their procedures – callers will be screened about their symptoms and first responders will wear protective gear. 

Read the latest on WSHU’s coronavirus coverage here

Desiree D'Iorio serves as the Long Island Bureau Chief for WSHU.
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