Potential Exposure of COVID-19 at Bethany Baptist Church

An individual who attended Bethany Baptist Church located at 149 Beattie Street, Syracuse on Sunday, March 15, 2020 has tested positive for COVID-19. Members of the public who were in the church building that day may have been exposed. UPDATE: This individual attended the 11:00 am service on March 15.

Onondaga County Health Commissioner Dr. Indu Gupta explained that, “All close contacts of the individual have been notified. Anyone who was in Bethany Baptist Church on March 15 should watch for symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, and/or difficulty breathing until Sunday, March 29, which would be the end of the 14 day incubation period.”

Gupta continued, “If symptoms do develop, stay home and call your doctor for further guidance about testing. If you are elderly, have underlying medical conditions, or are immunocompromised, call your doctor early even if your illness is mild. In an emergency call 911. If you have symptoms and do not have a doctor, call Upstate University Hospital’s Triage Line at 315.464.3979 and you will be advised about testing.”

Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
The public needs to step up and protect not just themselves, but others in our community who are most vulnerable to getting severely ill. Simple steps everyone can take to help stop the spread of COVID-19 and help “flatten the curve” include:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home, especially when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Stay informed about COVID-19
Be aware of false information circulating on the internet. Accurate and up-to-date information is available from:

A representative from the Health Department will be available at today’s 3:00 press briefing to answer specific questions related to this announcement.