As non-essential businesses reopen, New York State is following a cluster zone strategy that focuses on getting New Yorkers back to work—without triggering renewed spread of the COVID-19 virus or overwhelming local hospital systems. The strategy addresses COVID-19 cluster zones that have cropped up in various areas of New York.  

This science-based approach aims to contain these clusters and stop any further spread of the virus, with new rules and restrictions directly targeted to areas with the highest concentration of COVID-19 cases and the surrounding communities. 

The strategy identifies clusters and the areas around them and categorizes them into one or more color-coded zones with corresponding levels of restrictions and severity: Red Zones, Orange Zones, and Yellow Zones. 

To check the status of clusters in your area, visit the Governor's New York Forward site.

Essential businesses can continue operating –  visit the guidance page here.