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Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)

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Halloween Safety

Halloween needs to be different this year. You should not go to parties, gather in large groups or attend a haunted house.

You can still have fun by celebrating outdoors. Try going to a scavenger hunt in a park or touring your neighbors' decorations.

If you go trick-or-treating, be sure everyone is wearing a face covering, stay outdoors and 6 feet away after knocking on a door, and remember to bring plenty of hand sanitizer.

Learn more about how you can stay safe while being spooky this year:

School and Nonessential Business Closures

As of October 8, restrictions are now in place for businesses and schools in designated COVID-19 zones for a minimum of 14 days. Areas of the city have been designated as Red, Orange or Yellow zones based on their number of cases, and each type of zone has different restrictions.

As of October 21, some zones have changed. These changes are effective Thursday, October 22 for businesses and Monday, October 26 for schools.

Learn more below about what these restrictions mean for you.


There is still transmission of COVID-19 in New York City.

Getting Together Safely

In addition to following our general COVID-19 prevention guidance, stay cautious when you meet up with friends. Avoid indoor activities and stay away from big groups by sticking to a core group of friends and family — your pandemic "social bubble." You should only play sports and games with others when you can stay 6 feet apart and wear face coverings.

Here are some more tips to help you stay safe as you move about the city this summer.

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When you vote in person:

Voting Safely During COVID-19 (PDF)
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When you go to the gym:

  • Wear a face covering that covers your nose and mouth at all times. Bandanas, buffs and gaiters are not acceptable face coverings while at the gym.
  • Refrain from socializing. Keep at least 6 feet away from other gym-goers.

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When you eat out:

  • Do not wait. Make a reservation, check out the menu online and do whatever else you can to avoid long wait times before you get a table and order.
  • Keep your face covering on at all times when you are not eating and drinking.

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When you shop:

  • Use hand sanitizer when entering the store, after touching products and after leaving the store.
  • Only touch products you intend to buy, and use contactless payment methods whenever possible.

Download Guidance for Getting Together


Prevention: Most Important Steps

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Stay home if you are sick
Only leave for essential medical care or other essential errands.



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Keep physical distance
Stay at least 6 feet away from other people.


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Keep your hands clean
Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.


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Wear a face covering
You can be contagious without symptoms. Protect those around you by wearing a face covering.


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Get Tested
All New Yorkers should get a COVID-19 virus (diagnostic) test, whether or not they have symptoms or are at increased risk. Tests are free. Look for a testing site near you.

Get Medical Care

Do not delay getting the medical care you need. Contact your provider quickly about any new symptoms you are feeling, whether or not you think they may be related to COVID-19.

You should also go to routine check-ups and screenings, and get scheduled vaccinations for you and your children. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911.

More Information About COVID-19 in NYC

Additional Resources