Coronavirus Cluster Linked To Long Island Friendly's

SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY — A new coronavirus cluster was traced to a Riverhead Friendly's, Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone said Tuesday.

Six adult employees of the Friendly's, located on Old Country Road, contracted the coronavirus earlier this month, according to Dr. Shaheda Iftikhar, deputy commissioner of the Suffolk County Department of Health Services. The employees were at the restaurant Nov. 5-6.

Those who dined at the Friendly's during that time were advised to monitor themselves for 14 days for coronavirus symptoms.

The restaurant followed coronavirus protocols, Bellone said. Representatives for Friendly's didn't immediately return a request for comment.

Looking ahead to Thanksgiving, Bellone said small gatherings can become superspreader events. "We are asking the public to voluntarily comply as we know what's causing this," he said.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced new restrictions limiting gatherings at homes to 10 and forcing bars and restaurants to close by 10 p.m.

Suffolk County is experiencing a surge in coronavirus cases. With 400 new cases reported on Tuesday, the positive test rate stands at 3.4 percent. Also, he added, hospitalizations are back up to almost 100, the highest the county has seen since June 18. Sixteen people were hospitalized in the last 24 hours, bringing the countywide total to 97, Bellone said. Twenty are in intensive care.

With Thanksgiving break ahead, Bellone said Thanksgiving Eve has traditionally been one of the biggest party nights countywide.

"As we approach that big party night, gatherings that may seem harmless could lead to a spreader event," he said. "With bars closing early, young people may head to indoor gatherings and flout those social distancing guidelines."

The Suffolk County Department of Health and Partners in Prevention, a health collaborative of nonprofit health agencies, launched a social media campaign reminding people about the 10-person limit.

"The possible spread of COVID-19 at these types of parties is very, very real," Bellone said. "We've seen it countless times and we all need to take responsibility. As a community we need to work together to keep our young people healthy and safe and prevent spread."

Suffolk County police will investigate violations and decide on repercussions, Bellone said.

He said a Farmingville resident who hosted a house party with more than 200 people recently will be fined up to $2,500 — the first resident to be fined for violating the governor's executive orders.

"Our message is no matter where you are or what you are doing, social distancing and masks must be followed," Bellone said. "We've come too far. Cases are surging and Suffolk County is not immune. We have to double down on common-sense measures so we can save lives and keep the economy moving forward."