Niagara County's death toll increased to four as officials announced Thursday three more people have died as the result of COVID-19.
The deceased were reported to be a 69-year-old male with underlying health conditions, a 90-year-old female with underlying health conditions, and an 82-year-old female without underlying health conditions.
"Overall for Niagara County, we have 11 new positive cases to report today" said Niagara County Legislature Chair Becky Wydysh during her daily update on Lockport Community Television. "That brings us to a total of 166 positive cases of COVID-19 to date in Niagara County. 100 positive individuals are currently in isolation."
Of those people in isolation, 19 were in a hospital while the remainder were at home. Additionally, 156 people were reported in quarantine while 158 others had cleared quarantine. Sixty-two Niagara County patients, to date, have successfully recovered.
Most of the cases continue to be in Niagara Falls. As of Thursday morning, 43 cases were reported based on available testing. Niagara County breaks down its numberson its COVID-19 map. Wydysh noted that with the upcoming holiday weekend, staff would be out of the office. She recommended people go to the state COVID-19 site for updates during the weekend.
Speaking of the holidays, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday, Wydysh reminded the public that NY PAUSE remains in effect and restrictions on gatherings include religious services.
"There shouldn't be big family dinners at this time, or parties," she said. "We know that it's hard to be with just your immediate family at this time, especially when you add in the religious element of the weekend. People want to be with their church communities, and their larger groups of friends and family. But again, it's very important to follow those guidelines at this time and keep yourself at home."
Wydysh added that many places of worship offer video streaming options which followers may use in lieu of attending church.