SARS-CoV-2

On Friday, April 17, Governor Andrew Cuomo and Attorney General Letitia James informed the public that a previous suspension of certain debt collections and associated interest and fees initiated for 30 days starting on March 17 had been extended to May 17 because of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. They also explained that another extension is possible […]

The bi-annual tick season began this month. It usually runs through the middle of May, but longer warmer periods resulting from climate change means that ticks could be around for even longer this year. Although human stay-at-home orders because of the spread of SARS-CoV-2 reduce the likelihood that people might come into contact with these […]

On Thursday, April 16, the New York Attorney General Letitia James reminded all New York residents including those in Rochester that they are protected from eviction during the SARS-CoV-2 crisis. All evictions have been suspended to at least June 19, 2020. Even if a warrant for eviction currently exists, constables, sheriffs, and marshals aren’t permitted […]

The entertainment industry has already lost several much-loved artists this year to SARS-CoV-2. On Thursday, April 9, Tyler Perry shared with his fans the sad news that popular Hollywood hair stylist Charles Gregory Ross had succumbed to COVID-19 complications. In an Instagram post, the 50-year-old actor, director and writer stated: “Today it’s with a heavy […]

As of this week, the number of infected New Yorkers who have died from COVID-19 complications has surpassed similar outcomes in many countries, including China. Geneticists and researchers from two separate teams and investigations revealed this week that they believe that the total number of infected, both living and deceased, is a lot higher. They […]

With stay at home orders and social distancing the new norm because of SARS-CoV-2, entertainers have had to find virtual ways to produce content and relieve boredom. Some hip-hop and R&B artists previously explored their music and muse through in-person rap battles. Now, they’re turning to social platforms and live streaming tools, especially Instagram Live, […]

Per a Tuesday, April 7, CNN article, people of color are facing a challenging and fearful decision when they hear recommendations from officials to wear face masks made out of handkerchiefs. Large handkerchiefs and certain colors and patterns are associated with violent gangs that require that their members wear bandanas in specific colors to show […]

On Wednesday, April 15, Taraji P. Henson announced that the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation will now offer five free therapy sessions to individuals in the black community. The foundation will provide the services strictly to members of the black community who have suffered in some way because of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, especially those who have […]

Former NBA player and Clark Atlanta University men’s basketball head coach, George Lynch, and entrepreneur Tracey Pennywell have announced their plans to donate at least 6,000 computers to Historically Black College and University (HBCU) student athletes via a new non-profit that they formed called HBCU Heroes. “Many HBCU student-athletes were using school resources, such as […]

Ortho Clinical Diagnostics announced that it has been developing a test at its Global Center of Excellence for R&D in Rochester to determine if a person has been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2. According to the Ortho Clinical Diagnostics press release, the VITROS® Immunodiagnostic Products Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Total Reagent Pack detects a wide range of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. […]