Microcluster Zones: What the Colors Mean

As coronavirus clusters pop up in counties throughout the state, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced a cluster action initiative to address COVID-19 hotspots. The initiative is a science-based approach developed with the help of top public health experts to help stop any further spread of the virus, according to the release.

The rules are in effect for a minimum of 14 days and are outlined below. Other state guidance can supersede this guidance.

Yellow Zone — Precautionary Zone

• Houses of Worship: 50 percent capacity
• Mass Gatherings: 25 people maximum, indoor and outdoor
• Businesses: Open
• Dining: Indoor and outdoor dining, 4-person maximum per table
• Schools: Open with mandatory weekly testing of 20% of students and teachers/staff for in-person settings.

Orange Zone — Warning Zone

• Houses of Worship: 33 percent capacity, 25 people maximum
• Mass Gatherings: 10 people maximum, indoor and outdoor
• Businesses: Closing high-risk non-essential businesses
• Dining: Outdoor dining only, 4-person maximum per table
• Schools: Closed, remote only. Schools may remain open if 20% of in-person students, faculty and staff are tested for COVID-19 over the one month period following the zone designation.

Red Zone — Cluster Itself

• Houses of Worship: 25 percent capacity, 10 people maximum
• Mass Gatherings: Prohibited
• Businesses: Only essential businesses open
• Dining: Takeout only
• Schools: Closed, remote only. Schools may remain open if 30% of in-person students, faculty and staff are tested for COVID-19 over the one month period following the zone designation.