Halloween Weekend Could Lead to a Rise in COVID-19 Cases

By Teagan Brown 

SYRACUSE, N.Y. – Halloween is approaching this weekend and County Executive Ryan McMahon wants to ensure that those in Onondaga county feel safe. 

At his COVID-19 briefing yesterday McMahon looked back at last year’s Halloween celebrations and the effect they had on the rise of cases. 

“Last year Halloween was the start of the most terrible months of this pandemic so people should be very cognisant of that even if you’re vaccinated… outdoor events are better than indoor events” he said. 

The largest population of students in the county is located at Syracuse University where all of those attending classes must wear masks inside buildings. The school has been in the red zone for most of the semester and there’s no word on if or when it will change this semester. 

McMahon spoke about the frustrations he knows students are facing but he told them to be patient. 

“So I think the university just needs to hang in there for a little bit here… and let’s see how we get through November and if we’re getting through November and we’re still in a great place in the community and on the campus then I think certainly the Chancellor and his team have a decision to make.” He said. 

In an email to students, Vice President of Student Activities and Dean of Students Robert Hradsky shared advice with students on how to stay safe this Halloween. 

“We want you to engage and socialize safely, responsibly and respectfully,” he said. 

Students can find more information on COVID safety in their SYR email.