Cuomo orders flags at half-mast as coronavirus deaths increase by record 779

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. Andrew Cuomo reported the largest number of single-day deaths in the state on Wednesday.

According to Cuomo, deaths increased by 779, pushing total fatalities over 6,000.

During his press conference, Cuomo ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in honor of those who have died from the virus, including patients, medical professionals and other essential workers.

“Every number is a face and we have lost so many people, many of them front-line workers putting themselves at risk to do the essential functions that we all need for society to go on. In honor of those we have lost to the virus, I am directing all flags to be flown at half-mast,” said Cuomo. “And I continue to urge all New Yorkers to be responsible, adhere to all social distancing protocols and remember the life you are risking may not be your own."

The total positive cases in the state rose to 149,000, an increase of more than 10,400 from the day before.