NEW YORK (AP) — Health officials say the COVID-19 variant that was first detected in New York City now accounts for about two in five coronavirus cases in the city. That suggests that the variant spreads more easily than the older strain of the virus. But the city health officials said Wednesday they’ve seen no evidence that the New York City variant is deadlier or more vaccine resistant than earlier forms of the virus. Also on Wednesday, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that New York City restaurants will be permitted to fill half their seats starting March 19. That’s up from the current limit of 35%.
Photo: People enjoy a sunny day in Times Square in New York, Wednesday, March 10, 2021. Health officials say the COVID-19 variant that was first detected in New York City now accounts for about two in five coronavirus cases in the city. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
