ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – Health officials are warning the public about a rise in COVID-19 cases.

According to the Tompkins County Whole Health Department (TCWH), the 7-day rolling average of new cases over the last month has increased from one per day to three per day. The local increase is on par with state and national trends. Hospitalization rates remain low.

TCWH reminds the public that at-risk groups like young children, the elderly, and the immunocompromised can still get very ill if infected. TCWH recommends a proactive approach of wearing high-quality masks indoors and considering personal risk when gathering with others.

“This trend is reflective of early fall in 2020, 2021, and 2022,” said TCWH Commissioner Frank Kruppa. “The steps to reduce the risk of infection and prevent the spread of disease include limiting gatherings, wearing a high-quality mask when indoors and around others, seeking testing and staying home when feeling ill, and keeping current on your vaccination status. If you have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine series or a bivalent booster, please do so.”

Should you become symptomatic, PCR tests are available at local urgent care facilities, pharmacies, and your primary healthcare provider. Additionally, at-home tests are available for free at the Whole Health Offices on Brown Road in Ithaca. If you test positive, you should begin treatment as soon as possible. Antivirals like Paxlovid are most effective when treatment begins within 5 days after symptoms.