NYRA statement regarding suspected case of Hantavirus at Belmont Park
by NYRA Press Office
Today, the New York State Department of Health (DOH) announced that an individual employed as a backstretch worker at Belmont Park has died of a suspected case of a rare infection known as Hantavirus. Following the return of an initial positive test, DOH investigated all 78 residential cottages and dormitories at Belmont Park. DOH subsequently made several recommendations to NYRA regarding health and safety practices in living and working spaces at Belmont.
In response, NYRA has issued the following statement from Communications Director Pat McKenna.
“As noted by the New York State Department of Health, this is an extremely rare virus. This virus has not, and will not, impact the public visiting Belmont Park. We are redoubling our prior efforts to address appropriate rodent control measures throughout all backstretch facilities. In addition, NYRA is adopting and implementing all of New York State’s recommendations.”
Click here for additional information from the New York State DOH.
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