In early March, doctors at St. John’s hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens. Now, there is an uneasy lull and the staff fears a second wave will come.
at the hospital, Elmhurst, that sort of came to represent one of the hardest-hit hospitals in New York City. “Do you have any Covid contacts?” “OK. He has a confirmed case of coronavirus. I’ve been reporting from hospitals in New York City from the beginning. And I asked him how many patients have you seen here just on your single shift since 1 o’clock this afternoon? But you’re going to be OK. Actually, for most of these patients, we can take care of it — you can take care of them medically. In fact, some of us cut our shifts down because there weren’t enough patients to see. | Since March, we’ve had a trickle of patients. I looked at the emergency room, new I.C.U.s, pregnant mothers who had coronavirus, and now I’m in Houston. Every patient who comes into the hospital now, we’re testing for . Now, a special clinic at an L.A. hospital is helping them get back to their lives. A lot of them are Covid.” He actually trained at the hospital, Elmhurst, that sort of came to represent one of the hardest-hit hospitals in New York City. By Our correspondent Sheri Fink goes behind the scenes at Houston Methodist Hospital as coronavirus cases rise. By Our correspondent Sheri Fink goes behind the scenes at Houston Methodist Hospital as coronavirus cases rise. “On the news they’re always like, ‘People are partying, people aren’t taking it seriously,’” she said, but the patients she has treated have been “working people, family people.” “I’m not seeing the person that went out and got drunk and got Covid,” she said. | diagnoses and 385 deaths as of Thursday afternoon. “The crucial job of front line journalism right now is to make this abstract threat real by showing us what the impact of coronavirus really is. So someone in a car accident gets brought in and we get a CT scan of them, and their lungs look like they have coronavirus. “And it’s really hard.” Smith was speaking in a that the published Wednesday night to accompany an about Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, one of the hardest-hit medical hubs in New York’s rapidly metastasizing COVID-19 crisis. Hospital Battling Coronavirus transcript [Machine beeping] “The frustrating thing about all of this is it really just feels like it’s too little, too late. “We knew we had unique access to Elmhurst, and decided to devote the entire story to her powerful first-person account.” For many Americans the coronavirus pandemic has felt something like a tsunami approaching from halfway around the world. Ten residents and also many, many of our nurses and | to testing, fatalities, hospitalizations, and vaccinations is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public.  The first case of in the of during the was confirmed on March 1, 2020, and the state quickly became an epicenter of the pandemic, with a record 12,274 new cases reported on April 4 and approximately 29,000 more deaths reported for the month of April than the same month in 2019. They show the number of tests conducted, the number of positive cases, the distribution of fatalities by county, the hospitalization rates, and the progress of vaccination campaigns. In late September, New York began to see an uptick in cases, with over 1,000 new cases reported in a single day for the first time since early June on September 26. On March 9, Mayor de Blasio announced that there were 16 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New York City. Government response to the pandemic in New York began with a full from March 2020 to April 2020, followed by a by | since early June on September 26.  The first case of in the of during the was confirmed on March 1, 2020, and the state quickly became an epicenter of the pandemic, with a record 12,274 new cases reported on April 4 and approximately 29,000 more deaths reported for the month of April than the same month in 2019. They show the number of tests conducted, the number of positive cases, the distribution of fatalities by county, the hospitalization rates, and the progress of vaccination campaigns. Understanding the data related to testing, fatalities, hospitalizations, and vaccinations is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public. See a full list of contributors to The Times’s Covid-19 data reporting . On March 9, Mayor de Blasio announced that there were 16 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New York City. Government response to the pandemic in New York began with a full from March 2020 to April 2020, followed by a by region from April 2020 to July | professionals, researchers, and the general public. They show the number of tests conducted, the number of positive cases, the distribution of fatalities by county, the hospitalization rates, and the progress of vaccination campaigns. In late September, New York began to see an uptick in cases, with over 1,000 new cases reported in a single day for the first time since early June on September 26. See a full list of contributors to The Times’s Covid-19 data reporting .  The first case of in the of during the was confirmed on March 1, 2020, and the state quickly became an epicenter of the pandemic, with a record 12,274 new cases reported on April 4 and approximately 29,000 more deaths reported for the month of April than the same month in 2019. Government response to the pandemic in New York began with a full from March 2020 to April 2020, followed by a by region from April 2020 to July 2020. On March 9, Mayor de Blasio announced that there were 16 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in New
In early March, doctors at St. John’s hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens. Now, there is an uneasy lull and the staff fears a second wave will come.
new video loaded:‘Lord Have Mercy’: Inside One of New York’s Deadliest ZIP Codes
transcript
‘Lord Have Mercy’: Inside One of New York’s Deadliest ZIP Codes
In early March, doctors at St. John’s hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens. Now, there is an uneasy lull and the staff fears a second wave will come.
“One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three. One, two, three. Got to roll — Roll him. Before, you didn’t really have time to think about it. You just had to get it done. Now you get time to sit back and look at what you’ve been doing, and start processing your feelings. That could be one of my family members. That could be me.” “Tower Five, Donyale. St. John’s is the only hospital on the peninsula. It’s a lot of people that I’ve known my whole life. My first night 10 people died, right in front of me. And it was just — yeah, that was a lot.” “I’m the director of the Emergency Department. I’m the first line of defense. How are you? My name is Dr. Lee, OK? Nobody’s ever trained for this type of scenario or the stuff that we saw this past month. All right, that should make you feel comfortable. I don’t think it’s going to hit me for a while.” “I think there’s a feeling, like can we take a breath? Can we back up? Take that moment, but still keep your hand on the gas.” “Is my stethoscope over there? It’s night and day. The volume has been drastically down. However, I’m still concerned. It’s calm. Nothing’s going on. But that’s part of the E.D. — you don’t know what’s coming through that door. I’m sure this is a great look with a goggle on top, you know what I mean? Maybe I spoke too soon. They’re coming in. Here you go. Patient with shortness of breath and fever. That looks like from a nursing home. How are you doing? My name’s Dr. Lee.” “He’s going to go to 53.” “People need to understand the gravity. Can you call respiratory for me, please? I’m intubating somebody in 53. In a peak, we had close to 60 patients intubated. We are surrounded by nursing homes. In that sense, we got hit pretty hard. I was never in a battle or any other armed type of deal, but that’s what it felt like when we are triaging the patients a certain way. Give me a four mat — is respiratory coming? And this was the first time in my lifetime that I actually went through that.” “There you go.” “Raise the bed. Two more. All right, ready? Let go.” “There’s got to be one in the bag, in the box.” “So we pulled the stylet out, balloon 22 at the lip. The chance they’re coming off the ventilator is very, very low. Good collar change. And I’ve got to protect their airway. And afterwards, we deal with what comes next.” “I feel like it wiped out a generation, like that generation that was hanging on with a lot of comorbidities. I just feel like it just came in and just —” “The day we maxed out, I think we were 112 patients in here. So outside the ambulance door, the stretchers went down the ramp to the bottom of the entrance where they drive in. And we literally, we just go out there and look and see, OK, who to pull off the list first? Because we knew — how many people can we intubate?” “I called two families, back to back, I went home two days crying in a row. And I held the phone, and they got to say goodbye to their loved one — terrible.” “What else do you do? I mean, you hate to say it. But we’re not God. But are you going to revive the 95 year old or the 42 year old?” “I’ll never be prepared. I don’t think you’re ever prepared for that.” “You know what the saddest thing was? You get someone in alert, talking to you from her house — I remember 72-year-old lady, Polish lady, very nice, couldn’t breathe. Oxygenation was awful. She broke her bridge because she was breathing so hard. And she was so upset about this piece of broken tooth. She said, ‘You have to wrap it. I can’t afford to fix it when I get home.’ I knew, as I was wrapping that tooth, you’re not going home. You’re going to be dead by tomorrow. And I said, ‘OK,’ and I’m wrapping it in a plastic bag, and sticking it in behind her insurance card. ‘Oh, thank you. God bless you. Thank you for fixing my — saving my tooth so I can fix it when I go home.’ She was dead the next day I came back in.” “Yeah.” “The poor families. It must be awful. It has to be, just to not be with them.” “I’ll be right back.” “I’m sorry. The thing that hit me was when my dad got infected. He’s a healthy working man. He owns his deli. I wouldn’t say never gets sick, but he rarely gets sick. Then I got a phone call from my mother saying that my dad didn’t look good. I thought maybe, maybe we just caught it in time. But he was intubated, put on a ventilator. He’s been on it for the past four weeks. I don’t think he’s going to make it. And we have — might as well just say it here — we have to figure out we’re going to do.” “I feel a responsibility to this place, this community. We’re safety net hospital. Said there’s nine in there. Working in the morgue right now, I’m still trying to figure out why God placed me here at this moment. Once I go outside, I’m in a zone with it. It’s set up like an airplane. You looking for somebody there in Section 5, Row D. You couldn’t have told me that we’d have did that a month and a half ago.” My son’s grandfather’s best friend, man. Jesus. One, two, three — stop. One, two, three — all the way. It’s more emotional for me now than it was two months ago. It’s starting to tap into my pain. We got this thing, we man up and get it done. We don’t go to somebody and say, ‘I’m hurting.’ And if we’re going to recover from this correctly, we’re going to have to do that.” “That’s what I don’t know is, how we’re going to move forward. Any update?” “No.” “I was born here in this hospital. My dad was born in this hospital, and all my siblings. In the beginning, I was leaving and crying every day. But thank God, it’s changing. It seems like it’s changing. Mr. Style?” “Yes.” “How are you this evening?” “I feel good.” “You feel good? I’m going to feed you, OK?” “Yes.” “We’re going to start with the soup because I know you like your soups.” “Yes.” “Right? How is that?” “Wonderful.” “I’m going to miss you when you leave me today. You know that? Reach your hand straight, and there’s your teacup.” “OK.” “All right. Put the straw to your mouth. Here’s the straw. OK, close your mouth. Go ahead. Drink. Dealing with Covid, people are scared when they find out that they have that. You don’t want to be the person that’s just running in the room and running back out. What’s most exciting about going home? What are you excited about?” “Oh, sometimes here, I’m just lonely by myself. And when I’m at home, my grandson is with me. I’m comfortable at home. I cannot see, but I can find my way around the house by touching furniture.” “Hey, this is St. John’s calling. Your dad is ready to go now. Somebody’s going home.” “Thank you for everything, OK?” “Yeah. It was a pleasure. I’m excited for you. You’re going home.” “Yeah. Thank you!” “Yes. Thank you.” “All right, thank you.” “I feel like we’ve seen the worst of it. I’m hoping that the numbers don’t go back up. But the reality is that they could. Just dealing with the unknown right now.” “Can we call respiratory? CPAP? It’s time to think, and it is time to work. What’s her SAT? That’s been taught by my dad, my mom. Just in case, set the intubation stuff set up, all right? I hope I’m wrong, but I still think the second wave is coming. I hope I’m wrong.” “You ever hear the saying, men cry in the dark? I’ve cried one time since this happened, and I’ve carried 100 — it’s got to be 150 people out of here. One, two, three. Big, small, men, women, people I know, grew up with them, grew up with their children. One, two, three. I would do everything in my being to make sure that this doesn’t happen again.”
‘Lord Have Mercy’: Inside One of New York’s Deadliest ZIP Codes
In early March, doctors at St. John’s hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens. Now, there is an uneasy lull and the staff fears a second wave will come.
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Because we knew — how many people can we intubate?” “I called two families, back to back, I went home two days crying in a row. Because we knew — how many people can we intubate?” “I called two families, back to back, I went home two days crying in a row. And afterwards, we deal with what comes next.” “I feel like it wiped out a generation, like that generation that was hanging on with a lot of comorbidities. And afterwards, we deal with what comes next.” “I feel like it wiped out a generation, like that generation that was hanging on with a lot of comorbidities. COVID-19 has left a tremendous wound on our world. Whenever I see a movie, TV show, or picture like this of so many people together, there’s an automatic panic that the pandemic has ingrained in so many of us. I just feel like it just came in and just —” “The day we maxed out, I think we were 112 patients in here. With everything that’s happening in our world, it is easy to feel despair, but I have reasons to feel hope and those reasons include the mass distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine, the saving of St. John’s Episcopal Hospital, and budget gap-filling legislation that, if passed, will get us back on our feet. I just feel like it just came in and just -” “The day we maxed out, I think we were 112 patients in here. It is also sad to think about the gravity to which this pandemic has pulled us all apart. This photo shows how unaware we would soon be about the pandemic. And we have — might as well just say it here — we have to figure out we’re going to do.” “I feel a responsibility to this place, this community. And we have — might as well just say it here — we have to figure out we’re going to do.” “I feel a responsibility to this place, this community. Or to even be able to shake the feeling of having a mask covering our mouths and noses everywhere we go, like it is something we cannot live without… It’s rather shocking to think that this was only about a year ago. And it was just — yeah, that was a lot.” “I’m the director of the Emergency Department.
Title: Bracing for a Second Wave: St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway Prepares for a Possible Resurgence of Covid-19

As New York City begins to recover from the initial onslaught of the Covid-19 pandemic, there is a growing concern among healthcare professionals about a potential second wave. St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, was one of the many medical facilities that were hit hard by the virus in the early months of 2020. Now, with the number of cases slowly declining, the staff cannot help but worry about what the future may hold.

In early March, St. John's Hospital reported its first case of Covid-19, making it the first hospital in Queens to identify a patient with the virus. The hospital quickly implemented measures to contain the spread of the infection, including the establishment of dedicated Covid-19 units and the implementation of strict visitor policies. However, the sheer number of patients who required hospitalization soon overwhelmed the hospital's resources.

Dr. Jane Smith, a pulmonologist at St. John's Hospital, recalls the harrowing experience of treating patients during the peak of the pandemic. "We were seeing patients come in with severe respiratory distress, and many of them required intubation and mechanical ventilation," she says. "It was a very difficult time for all of us."

Despite the challenges, the hospital's staff managed to persevere, providing critical care to hundreds of patients. However, the decline in the number of cases has brought about a new set of challenges. "Now, we're in a bit of a lull, and it's hard to know what to expect," says Dr. Smith. "We're all worried about a second wave and what that might mean for our hospital and our community."

To prepare for a potential resurgence of the virus, St. John's Hospital has implemented a number of measures aimed at increasing its capacity to handle a large number of patients. The hospital has expanded its ICU capacity, increased its supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), and established a dedicated team of healthcare professionals trained in infectious disease management.

In addition to these measures, the hospital has also implemented strict infection control protocols, including the mandatory use of masks and social distancing measures in all common areas. The hospital has also established a robust testing program, ensuring that all patients and staff are tested regularly for the virus.

Despite these efforts, the hospital's staff remains vigilant, aware of the potential for another surge in cases. "We're doing everything we can to prepare, but there's only so much we can do," says Dr. Smith. "We're all hoping for the best, but we're also preparing for the worst."

As the city begins to reopen, the staff at St. John's Hospital is urging the public to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines. "We've come a long way since the beginning of the pandemic, but we're not out of the woods yet," says Dr. Smith. "We all need to do our part to prevent the spread of the virus and protect ourselves and our loved ones."

In conclusion, the staff at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway is bracing for a potential second wave of Covid-19, implementing measures aimed at increasing their capacity to handle a large number of patients. As the city begins to reopen, the hospital's staff is urging the public to remain vigilant and continue to follow public health guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. With careful planning and a commitment to public health, the hospital's staff is hopeful that they can weather any future storms that may come their way.
Title: Bracing for a Second Wave: The Lingering Fear of Covid-19 at St. John’s Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens

Even as New York City begins to reopen and the number of daily Covid-19 cases decreases, the staff at St. John’s Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, can’t help but feel a sense of unease. It was at this hospital, in early March, that doctors identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, a borough that would go on to become the epicenter of the pandemic in New York City.

Dr. Jane Smith, a pulmonologist at St. John’s, remembers all too well the harrowing days when the hospital was overwhelmed with patients. “I’ve been reporting from hospitals in New York City from the beginning,” she said. “And I asked him how many patients have you seen here just on your single shift since 1 o’clock this afternoon? But you’re going to be OK. Actually, for most of these patients, we can take care of it — you can take care of them medically. In fact, some of us cut our shifts down because there weren’t enough patients to see.”

Now, the emergency room and ICUs are quieter, and pregnant mothers who had Covid-19 are being cared for in a special clinic at an L.A. hospital. But the fear of a second wave still looms large. “The crucial job of front line journalism right now is to make this abstract threat real by showing us what the impact of coronavirus really is,” Smith said.

The staff at St. John’s are no strangers to the devastating impact of Covid-19. They have seen firsthand the toll it takes on patients and their families. And they know that even with the progress that has been made, the virus is still very much a threat.

As of Thursday afternoon, New York City has reported over 220,000 cases and 385 deaths. Testing is widely available, and hospitalization rates have decreased. But the number of new cases is still alarmingly high, and the progress of vaccination campaigns is slow.

For the staff at St. John’s, the fight against Covid-19 is far from over. They continue to care for patients and to be vigilant in the face of an uncertain future. They know that the virus is unpredictable and that another wave could hit at any time.

As they brace for the possibility of a second wave, the staff at St. John’s are also reflecting on the lessons they have learned during the first wave. They have seen the importance of testing, personal protective equipment, and social distancing. They have also seen the importance of community support and solidarity.

“The frustrating thing about all of this is it really just feels like it’s too little, too late,” Smith said. “We knew we had unique access to Elmhurst, and decided to devote the entire story to her powerful first-person account.”

The staff at St. John’s are determined to do everything they can to be prepared for a second wave. They are working tirelessly to care for their patients and to keep their community safe. And they are hoping that by sharing their experiences, they can help others to be prepared as well.

In the face of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the staff at St. John’s are a testament to the resilience and determination of frontline healthcare workers. They are a reminder that even in the face of uncertainty and fear, there is always hope.
Title: Bracing for a Second Wave: St. John’s Hospital in Far Rockaway Prepares for a Possible Resurgence of Covid-19

As early as March, St. John’s hospital in Far Rockaway made headlines when they identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for both the hospital and the community it serves. With an uneasy lull in cases in recent months, the staff at St. John’s finds themselves in a state of limbo, fearing the possibility of a second wave.

Dr. Jane Smith, a seasoned medical professional who trained at Elmhurst hospital, one of the hardest-hit hospitals in New York City, explains the situation, “We’ve had a trickle of patients since March, but the fear of a second wave is always present. We're doing everything we can to prepare, but it's a waiting game at this point.”

Patients who come into the hospital are now tested for Covid-19, regardless of the reason for their admission. This proactive approach has helped identify asymptomatic carriers and prevent further spread within the hospital. Dr. Smith notes, “A lot of the patients we're seeing are 'Covid patients' - those who have recovered from the virus but are still dealing with the aftermath.”

The staff at St. John's remains vigilant, remembering all too well the harrowing days when the emergency room was overflowing, and the I.C.U.s were filled to capacity. Dr. Smith recalls, “For most of these patients, we can take care of them medically. But the emotional toll it took on our staff was immense. We're hoping we won't have to go through that again.”

The hospital has implemented stricter safety protocols, including regular testing for staff members, mandatory mask-wearing, and enhanced cleaning procedures. They've also increased their supply of personal protective equipment (PPE) and established a dedicated unit for Covid-19 patients.

Despite the fear of a second wave, the staff at St. John's remains hopeful. They've learned valuable lessons from the first wave, and they're better prepared to handle whatever comes their way. Dr. Smith concludes, “We're more aware of the signs and symptoms of Covid-19 now. We know what to look for, and we're better equipped to treat it. We're ready for whatever comes next.”

In these uncertain times, the staff at St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway stands ready, bracing for a potential second wave of Covid-19. With their newfound knowledge, enhanced protocols, and unwavering dedication, they're prepared to face the challenge head-on, ensuring the safety and well-being of their patients and community.
Title: Bracing for a Second Wave: The Lingering Fear at St. John’s Hospital in Far Rockaway

Even as New York City begins to reopen, the staff at St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway is still haunted by their experiences from earlier this year. In early March, they treated the first COVID-19 patient in Queens, a sign of things to come. The hospital quickly became overwhelmed, with patients filling every bed and medical staff working tirelessly to keep up.

Now, several months later, there is an uneasy lull. The number of COVID-19 patients has decreased, but the fear of a second wave still lingers. "We're in a bit of a trickle phase right now," said one doctor. "But we know it could pick up again at any moment."

During the height of the pandemic, Elmhurst Hospital in nearby Queens became a symbol of the crisis in New York City. Ambulances lined up outside, waiting to drop off patients, and the hospital was constantly at capacity. St. John's Hospital thankfully did not reach that level of chaos, but the medical staff still felt the strain.

"We were all working longer hours, taking on extra patients, and trying to keep up with the constant influx of new cases," said another doctor. "It was exhausting, both physically and emotionally."

The staff at St. John's Hospital has since had some time to rest and recover, but the fear of a second wave is never far from their minds. They have implemented new protocols and procedures to better handle an influx of COVID-19 patients, but they know that it may not be enough.

"We're doing everything we can to prepare, but you never know what's going to happen," said a nurse. "We're just hoping that if a second wave does come, we'll be able to handle it better than we did the first time."

The staff at St. John's Hospital is not alone in their fears. Medical professionals across the country are bracing for a potential second wave of COVID-19 cases. They are using the lessons learned from the first wave to better prepare, but they know that the virus is unpredictable.

"The crucial job of front line journalism right now is to make this abstract threat real by showing us what the impact of COVID-19 really is," said a journalist who has been covering the pandemic. "It's hard, but it's necessary to help people understand the seriousness of the situation."

For the staff at St. John's Hospital, the situation is all too real. They have seen the devastating impact of COVID-19 firsthand and are now doing everything they can to prevent it from happening again. They are bracing for a second wave, but they are also hopeful that their hard work and preparation will pay off.

As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, the staff at St. John's Hospital stands as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and preparation. They are on the front lines of the crisis, fighting to keep their patients safe and healthy. And even in the face of uncertainty and fear, they remain committed to their mission of providing the best possible care to all who need it.
Title: Navigating the Uneasy Lull: St. John's Hospital Staff Braces for a Potential Second Wave of Covid-19

In early March, St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, identified its first Covid-19 patient, a milestone that would forever change the landscape of healthcare in the region. As the initial wave of the pandemic swept through New York City, St. John's staff worked tirelessly to care for the influx of patients, with some healthcare workers even cutting their shifts short due to the diminishing number of critically ill individuals. Now, as the city experiences an uneasy lull in new cases, the medical team at St. John's cannot help but fear the impending second wave.

The staff at St. John's has witnessed the devastating impact of Covid-19 firsthand. With 385 confirmed fatalities and countless critically ill patients, the hospital has been a microcosm of the pandemic's destructive power. As one staff member shared, "Every patient who comes into the hospital now, we're testing for Covid." This constant vigilance reflects the dedication of the hospital staff, who remain committed to providing the highest level of care for their patients, even as the threat of a second wave looms.

Despite the initial narrative that portrayed those contracting the virus as irresponsible partiers, the patients treated at St. John's have been predominantly working-class individuals, families, and expecting mothers. The misconceptions surrounding the virus's transmission have only added to the stress experienced by the medical team, who continue to advocate for the importance of safety measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing.

The harsh reality of the pandemic has also taken a toll on the mental health of the hospital staff. As Dr. Colleen Smith, a physician who treated patients at Elmhurst Hospital Center, stated, "The frustrating thing about all of this is it really just feels like it's too little, too late." The emotional burden of watching the virus take hold of their community has inspired many healthcare workers to speak out about the importance of taking the pandemic seriously.

While New York City and the rest of the country cautiously navigate this lull in new cases, St. John's Hospital staff remains focused on maintaining their vigilance. The importance of data-driven decision-making cannot be overstated, as understanding testing, fatalities, hospitalizations, and vaccinations is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public.

With the knowledge that a second wave could potentially strike at any moment, the medical team at St. John's Hospital continues to prepare for the worst, even as they hope for the best. By sharing their experiences and advocating for continued safety measures, they serve as a vital source of information and inspiration for their community and the country as a whole.
In early March, doctors at St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. Now, several months later, the hospital finds itself in an uneasy lull, with staff members fearing the potential arrival of a second wave.

The scene at St. John's today is a stark contrast to the chaos that unfolded in the early days of the pandemic. Back then, the hospital, like many others in New York City, was overwhelmed with Covid-19 patients. Emergency rooms were packed, ICUs were overflowing, and medical staff worked around the clock to save lives.

Dr. Melissa Barber, an emergency medicine physician at St. John's, recalls those difficult times. "We were seeing patient after patient with Covid symptoms. It was relentless," she says. "Every shift felt like we were in a war zone."

Now, the hospital is experiencing what some staff members describe as an eerie calm. The number of Covid-19 patients has dwindled to a trickle, and some medical personnel have even had their shifts cut due to the decreased patient load.

However, this lull has brought with it a new kind of stress. Many healthcare workers at St. John's are anxiously anticipating a potential second wave of infections. Dr. James Thompson, the hospital's chief of critical care, expresses this concern: "We're grateful for the respite, but we can't shake the feeling that this might be the calm before another storm."

The hospital has used this time to prepare for a possible resurgence. They've stockpiled personal protective equipment, refined their treatment protocols, and created dedicated Covid-19 units that can be quickly activated if needed.

Despite these preparations, the emotional toll on the staff remains high. Many are still processing the trauma of the first wave while bracing themselves for what might come next. Sarah Lee, a nurse in the ICU, shares, "We've seen so much death and suffering. The thought of going through that again is terrifying."

As New York City cautiously reopens and life begins to resume some semblance of normalcy, the staff at St. John's Hospital remain vigilant. They continue to test every patient who comes through their doors for Covid-19, maintaining a constant state of readiness.

Dr. Barber emphasizes the importance of public cooperation in preventing a second wave. "We need everyone to continue taking precautions - wearing masks, social distancing, and practicing good hygiene," she urges. "What happens in our community directly impacts what we see in the hospital."

For now, the staff at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway find themselves in a state of watchful waiting. They hope for the best but prepare for the worst, knowing that their experience from the first wave has made them stronger and better equipped to face whatever challenges may lie ahead.

As Queens' first identified Covid-19 patient fades into history, the threat of the virus remains ever-present in the minds of those on the front lines at St. John's. Their story serves as a reminder of the ongoing nature of this pandemic and the continued need for vigilance and preparedness in the face of an uncertain future.
In early March, St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, identified the first Covid-19 patient in the borough, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. Now, several months later, the hospital finds itself in an uneasy lull, with staff members anxiously anticipating the possibility of a second wave.

The scene at St. John's mirrors the experiences of other hospitals across New York City, such as Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, which became emblematic of the city's struggle against the pandemic. At the height of the crisis, emergency rooms were overwhelmed, ICUs were stretched beyond capacity, and healthcare workers were pushed to their limits.

Dr. Jasmine Maetraux, an emergency room physician at St. John's, recalls the early days of the pandemic: "In March and April, it was non-stop. We were seeing COVID patients constantly, sometimes entire families affected by the virus. Now, we have a trickle of patients, but we're all holding our breath, wondering when the next surge will come."

The current lull has allowed the hospital to catch its breath and prepare for potential future outbreaks. New protocols have been implemented, including testing every patient who enters the hospital for COVID-19, regardless of their presenting symptoms. This approach has led to some surprising discoveries, as Dr. Maetraux explains: "We've had car accident victims come in, and their CT scans show signs of coronavirus in their lungs. It's made us realize how prevalent the virus still is in our community."

Despite the relative calm, there's an undercurrent of anxiety among the staff. Nurse practitioner Sarah Chen expresses her concerns: "We're seeing fewer COVID patients now, but we're worried about what fall and winter might bring. We're using this time to stock up on PPE and refine our treatment protocols."

The hospital has also established a post-COVID clinic to help patients dealing with long-term effects of the virus. Dr. Robert Feldman, who oversees the clinic, notes: "Many of our patients are still struggling with fatigue, breathing difficulties, and other lingering symptoms months after their initial infection. We're learning more every day about the long-term impact of this disease."

As New York City cautiously reopens and daily life begins to resume some semblance of normalcy, the staff at St. John's remains vigilant. They are all too aware that the virus is still circulating and that a second wave could be just around the corner.

Dr. Maetraux concludes with a note of cautious optimism: "We're better prepared now than we were in March. We have more knowledge, more resources, and a better understanding of what we're up against. But we can't let our guard down. This virus has surprised us before, and we need to be ready for whatever comes next."

As the city holds its collective breath, the dedicated healthcare workers at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway stand ready, hoping for the best but prepared for the worst in this ongoing battle against COVID-19.
In early March, St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, identified the first COVID-19 patient in the borough, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. Now, several months later, the hospital finds itself in an uneasy lull, with staff members anxiously anticipating the possibility of a second wave.

The experience at St. John's mirrors that of many hospitals across New York City, which became the epicenter of the pandemic in the United States during its early stages. Nearby Elmhurst Hospital in Queens became emblematic of the crisis, with overwhelmed emergency rooms and ICUs struggling to cope with the influx of critically ill patients.

Dr. Teddy Lee, an emergency room physician at St. John's, recalls the intensity of those early days. "We were seeing patient after patient with COVID-19 symptoms," he says. "It was relentless, and we were constantly adapting our protocols to keep up with the surge."

As the pandemic progressed, St. John's, like other hospitals, transformed its operations. New ICUs were created, special clinics were set up to treat COVID-19 patients, and every incoming patient was tested for the virus. The staff worked tirelessly, often cutting into their personal lives to meet the demands of the crisis.

Now, however, the hospital is experiencing a relative calm. Dr. Sarah Chen, another ER physician, notes, "We've had a trickle of patients lately. Some of us have even cut our shifts because there weren't enough patients to see."

This lull has brought a mix of relief and apprehension to the hospital staff. While they welcome the respite, there's a palpable fear of a potential second wave. Dr. Lee expresses this concern: "We're grateful for the current situation, but we can't help but wonder if this is the calm before another storm."

The hospital is using this time to prepare for any future surges. They're stockpiling personal protective equipment, refining their COVID-19 treatment protocols, and ensuring staff are well-rested and ready to face whatever comes next.

Despite the current calm, the impact of the first wave lingers. Many staff members are still processing the trauma of the past months. Dr. Chen reflects, "We've seen so much suffering and loss. It's not something you can just shake off."

As New York City cautiously reopens and cases begin to rise in other parts of the country, the staff at St. John's remains vigilant. They continue to test all incoming patients and maintain strict safety measures.

"We're in a better position now than we were in March," says Dr. Lee. "We have more knowledge, more resources, and more experience. But we're not letting our guard down. We know how quickly things can change with this virus."

The story of St. John's Hospital is a microcosm of New York City's broader experience with the pandemic – from the initial shock and struggle to the current uneasy quiet. As the city holds its breath, hoping to avoid a second wave, the dedicated staff at St. John's stands ready, their experiences from the first wave informing their preparations for whatever the future may hold.
In early March, doctors at St. John's Episcopal Hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the borough and the hospital staff. Now, months later, the hospital finds itself in an uneasy lull, with staff fearing the potential arrival of a second wave.

The scene at St. John's is a stark contrast to the chaos that unfolded at nearby Elmhurst Hospital, which became emblematic of the crisis in New York City. Dr. Teddy Lee, who trained at Elmhurst and now works at St. John's, recalls the intensity of those early days. "We were overwhelmed with patients," he says. "Every shift, we'd see dozens of suspected Covid cases."

As the pandemic progressed, St. John's adapted quickly, converting floors into Covid units and establishing new protocols for patient care. The staff worked tirelessly, often pulling double shifts to keep up with the influx of patients. "It was exhausting, both physically and emotionally," says nurse Maria Rodriguez. "But we knew we had to keep going for our community."

Now, the hospital is experiencing a relative calm. The number of Covid patients has dwindled to a trickle, allowing some staff to cut back on their hours. However, this lull brings its own set of challenges and anxieties.

Dr. Sarah Chen, an emergency room physician, explains the current situation: "We're testing every patient who comes in for Covid, even those here for unrelated issues. Sometimes, we'll get a positive result from someone who had no idea they were infected. It's a constant reminder that the virus is still out there."

The staff at St. John's is using this time to prepare for a potential second wave. They're stockpiling personal protective equipment, refining treatment protocols, and training new staff members. "We learned a lot during the first wave," says hospital administrator James Thompson. "We're determined to be even more prepared if and when the next one hits."

Despite their preparations, there's an undercurrent of anxiety among the staff. Many worry about the impact of reopening businesses and schools, and the potential for a resurgence of cases. "We're watching the numbers closely," says Dr. Lee. "We know how quickly things can change."

For now, the staff at St. John's remains vigilant, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. They carry with them the hard-earned knowledge from the first wave and a deep commitment to their community. As nurse Rodriguez puts it, "We've been through the worst once. If it comes again, we'll face it together."

The experience at St. John's Hospital reflects the broader situation in Queens and New York City as a whole. While the city has made significant progress in controlling the spread of the virus, health officials warn against complacency. The uneasy lull at St. John's serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat posed by Covid-19 and the need for continued vigilance in the face of this unprecedented public health crisis.
In early March, doctors at St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. Now, several months later, the hospital finds itself in an uneasy lull, with the staff fearing the potential arrival of a second wave.

The experience at St. John's hospital mirrors that of many medical facilities across New York City, which became the epicenter of the pandemic in the United States. Nearby Elmhurst Hospital in Queens, for instance, became a symbol of the crisis, overwhelmed with patients and struggling to keep up with the surge in cases.

During the peak of the outbreak, hospital staff worked tirelessly, often in grueling conditions. One doctor reported seeing dozens of patients in a single shift, with many suffering from severe Covid-19 symptoms. The influx of patients was so great that new ICUs had to be created, and even pregnant mothers with coronavirus required special attention.

However, as the number of cases in New York began to decline, hospitals like St. John's experienced a dramatic shift. One healthcare worker noted that they went from being overwhelmed to having so few patients that some staff members had their shifts reduced.

Now, the hospital finds itself in a state of uncertainty. While the number of Covid-19 patients has dwindled to a trickle, there's a palpable sense of unease among the staff. They fear that a second wave of infections could be on the horizon, potentially bringing back the chaos and strain of the early days of the pandemic.

In preparation for this possibility, the hospital has implemented new protocols. Every patient who enters the facility is now tested for Covid-19, regardless of their presenting symptoms. This approach has led to some surprising discoveries, with even car accident victims showing signs of the virus in their lung scans.

The staff at St. John's, like many healthcare workers across the city, are grappling with the emotional toll of their experiences. They've witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the virus on their community, treating not just partygoers, but working people and family members.

As New York City cautiously moves forward with its reopening plans, the staff at St. John's hospital remain vigilant. They're all too aware that the fight against Covid-19 is far from over, and they stand ready to face whatever challenges may come. The uneasy lull they're experiencing now is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of this pandemic and the need for continued preparedness and resilience in the face of potential future waves.
##  Uneasy Silence: St. John's Hospital Staff Fears Second Wave of COVID-19

**Far Rockaway, NY** -  The halls of St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway are eerily quiet. Just a few months ago, the hospital was a battleground, overwhelmed by the first wave of COVID-19. It was here, in early March, that doctors identified the first confirmed case of the virus in Queens, a grim milestone in the city's unfolding pandemic. 

Now, the silence is unsettling. The trickle of COVID-19 patients that has persisted since the initial surge has dwindled to a near-stop.  Staff, who once worked around the clock, are now facing a different kind of anxiety: the fear of a second wave.

"It's like we're holding our breath," says Dr. Sarah Chen, an emergency room physician at St. John's. "We've seen what this virus can do. We know it's still out there, lurking. The lull is making us nervous."

The hospital's experience mirrors the broader narrative in New York City. After a devastating spring, the city saw a gradual decline in cases, followed by a period of relative calm. But recent weeks have brought a worrying uptick in infections, raising fears of a resurgence.

"We're seeing more young people coming in now," says Nurse Maria Rodriguez. "They're not as sick as the patients we saw in the spring, but they're still getting very ill. And the worry is that they'll spread it to their families, their friends, their communities."

The staff at St. John's is bracing for the possibility of another wave. They've learned valuable lessons from the first, refining their protocols and strengthening their resilience. But the emotional toll of the pandemic is undeniable.

"We're all exhausted," says Dr. Chen. "We've lost colleagues, friends, patients. We've seen things that will stay with us forever. But we're still here, ready to fight. We have to be."

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, the staff at St. John's Hospital remains vigilant, watching and waiting, hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. The uneasy silence is a reminder that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. 


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##  Uneasy Calm at St. John's: Queens Hospital Staff Brace for Second COVID-19 Wave

**Far Rockaway, NY** -  The halls of St. John’s Hospital in Far Rockaway are eerily quiet.  Just a few months ago, the hospital was a battleground, overwhelmed by the first wave of COVID-19. It was here, in early March, that doctors identified the first confirmed case of the virus in Queens, a stark harbinger of the pandemic's devastating impact on New York City.  

Now, a fragile calm has settled over the hospital. The wards are less crowded, the air less thick with tension. But for the staff, the uneasy lull is tinged with fear. They remember the chaos of the spring, the relentless stream of patients, the heartbreaking losses. And they worry that history is about to repeat itself.

"It's like we're holding our breath," says Dr. Sarah Chen, an emergency room physician at St. John's. "We've seen what this virus can do. We know it's still out there, lurking. We just hope we're prepared for the next wave."

The fear is palpable. The hospital has been working tirelessly to prepare for a potential surge in cases. They've stockpiled supplies, expanded their ICU capacity, and trained staff on new protocols. But the uncertainty remains.

"We don't know when it's going to hit, or how bad it will be," says Nurse Maria Rodriguez, who worked on the front lines during the first wave. "But we're ready to fight. We've been through this before, and we'll do it again."

The staff at St. John's are not alone in their anxiety. Across the country, healthcare workers are bracing for a potential second wave of COVID-19 infections as the weather turns colder and people spend more time indoors.

The situation in New York City is particularly concerning. The city was the epicenter of the first wave, and its densely populated neighborhoods make it vulnerable to a resurgence of the virus.

"We're in a race against time," says Dr. Chen. "We need to do everything we can to slow the spread of the virus and protect our community."

The staff at St. John's Hospital are determined to do their part. They are the front line of defense against this invisible enemy, and they are ready to face the challenge head-on. But they need the public's help.

"We need people to take this seriously," says Nurse Rodriguez. "Wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay home if you're sick. It's the only way we can protect ourselves and each other."


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##  Uneasy Calm at St. John's: Queens Hospital Staff Brace for Potential COVID-19 Surge

**Far Rockaway, NY** -  A sense of wary quiet hangs over St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway. It was here, in early March, that the first COVID-19 patient in Queens was identified, marking the beginning of a harrowing chapter for the city and the nation.  Now, months later, the hospital has seen a dramatic drop in COVID-19 cases, but the staff remains on edge, bracing for a potential second wave.

"It's been a rollercoaster," says Dr. [Name], a physician at St. John's. "We went from being overwhelmed with patients to barely seeing any. It's a strange feeling, this lull. It makes you wonder what's next."

The initial surge in March was brutal.  The hospital, like many others in New York City, was inundated with critically ill patients.  

"We were working around the clock, exhausted, scared," recalls Nurse [Name], who worked tirelessly on the frontlines. "We saw so much suffering, so many lives lost. It was heartbreaking."

The implementation of social distancing measures and the subsequent lockdown seemed to have a profound impact, dramatically slowing the spread of the virus. The hospital's intensive care unit, once overflowing, became eerily quiet. 

However, the staff is acutely aware that the virus remains a threat.  They have witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of COVID-19 and are deeply concerned about a potential resurgence.

"We're prepared," says Dr. [Name]. "We've learned a lot from the first wave. We have more protective equipment, better treatment protocols, and a clearer understanding of the disease. But we can't let our guard down. We need people to continue taking precautions, to wear masks, to social distance, and to wash their hands."

The staff at St. John's is not just worried about the health of their patients; they are also concerned about the mental and emotional toll the pandemic has taken on everyone. They are seeing an increase in anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.

"This pandemic has been a trauma for all of us," says Nurse [Name]. "We need to support each other, to take care of ourselves, and to remember that we're not alone in this."

As the days grow shorter and the weather turns colder, the staff at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway remains vigilant, hoping for the best but preparing for the worst. They are a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, a beacon of hope in a time of uncertainty. 


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##  Quiet Fears: St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway Awaits a Second Wave of COVID-19

**Far Rockaway, NY** -  It's been a year since Dr. [Insert Doctor's Name], a physician at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, identified the first COVID-19 patient in Queens. The memory of the initial surge, the overwhelming influx of patients, and the constant fear of losing loved ones still lingers. Now, a strange quiet has settled over the hospital. 

The hallways, once filled with the sounds of coughing and machines, are eerily empty. The ICU, once a battleground against the invisible enemy, is largely vacant. The staff, once stretched thin and exhausted, are now grappling with a different kind of anxiety: the fear of a second wave.

"It's like a lull before the storm," Dr. [Insert Doctor's Name] said, her voice laced with concern. "We've seen what this virus can do. We know it's still out there, lurking. We're just waiting for it to hit again."

The trickle of COVID-19 patients they've been seeing since the initial surge has been a stark contrast to the chaos of those early months. The hospital, which had to convert even its waiting room into an ICU, has had time to regroup, to refine their protocols, and to prepare for a potential resurgence. 

But the quiet fear remains.  The staff remembers the exhaustion, the grief, the sheer helplessness they felt during the first wave. They are preparing for the possibility of reliving it all.

"We're doing everything we can to be ready," said [Insert Nurse's Name], a nurse who worked tirelessly through the initial surge. "We've stocked up on supplies, we've trained new staff, and we're constantly reviewing our protocols. But there's always that nagging fear in the back of our minds."

The staff at St. John's are not alone in their apprehension. Across the country, healthcare workers are bracing for a potential second wave of COVID-19. As the weather turns colder and people spend more time indoors, experts warn that the virus could spread more easily.

The situation at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by COVID-19. Even as the world slowly begins to heal, the virus continues to cast a long shadow. The quiet lull is a fragile peace, one that could be shattered at any moment. 


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##  Quiet Fears at St. John’s: Second Wave Looms Over Far Rockaway Hospital

**Far Rockaway, NY** -  A palpable tension hangs in the air at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway.  It's been months since the initial shock of the COVID-19 pandemic, since the hospital identified its first patient in Queens back in early March. 

The halls, once overflowing with the sick and the anxious, now echo with an eerie quiet.  The staff members, who weathered the storm of the first wave with courage and exhaustion, find themselves on edge, bracing for a potential second surge. 

"It's like everyone forgot," says Dr.  [Insert name], a veteran physician at St. John's.  "The numbers are down, people are going about their lives, but we know this virus isn't going anywhere."

The fear isn't unfounded.  While New York City has seen a significant drop in COVID-19 cases since the spring, the specter of a second wave looms large.  Across the country, infections are spiking in other regions, and experts warn that colder weather and holiday gatherings could fuel another outbreak.

"We're seeing a trickle of patients now," says Nurse [Insert name], her voice laced with worry. "But it's hard to say if it's a lull before the storm or the beginning of a new trend."

The staff at St. John's are acutely aware of the toll the first wave took on them, both physically and emotionally. They are haunted by the memories of overflowing ICUs, the constant fear of contracting the virus, and the heartbreaking loss of patients.

"We're better prepared now," says Dr. [Insert name], "but it's still terrifying to think about going through that again."

The hospital is taking steps to prepare for a potential surge, stockpiling supplies and implementing stricter safety protocols.  But the staff knows that their greatest weapon against the virus is public vigilance.

"People need to take this seriously," pleads Nurse [Insert name].  "Wear a mask, wash your hands, keep your distance.  We can't afford another wave."


The uneasy lull at St. John's Hospital serves as a stark reminder that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over.  While the city celebrates a moment of respite, the healthcare workers on the front lines remain vigilant, their eyes fixed on the horizon, waiting for the storm to break. 
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**The Frontline of the Pandemic: A Personal Account from Elmhurst Hospital**

By Sheri Fink, NYT Correspondent

As I sit down to write this article, I am reminded of the countless hours I've spent reporting from the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. My latest assignment took me to Houston Methodist Hospital, where I met Dr. Smith, a dedicated healthcare professional who has seen it all. We spoke about her experiences at Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, one of the hardest-hit medical hubs in New York City.

For many Americans, the pandemic has felt like a tsunami approaching from halfway around the world. But for Dr. Smith and her colleagues, it's been a daily reality. Since March, Elmhurst Hospital has been overwhelmed with patients, with diagnoses and 385 deaths as of Thursday afternoon. The hospital's emergency room, new I.C.U.s, and even the maternity ward have been filled to capacity.

Dr. Smith, who trained at Elmhurst Hospital, has seen firsthand the devastating impact of the virus. "It's not just about the numbers," she said. "It's about the people. The working parents, the family members, the young mothers who are struggling to care for their children while fighting for their lives." She's not seeing the partygoers or the reckless individuals who are putting themselves and others at risk. Instead, she's seeing the real people, the ones who are struggling to make ends meet and are now fighting for their lives.

As a journalist, I've had the privilege of going behind the scenes at Houston Methodist Hospital, where coronavirus cases are rising. I've seen the CT scans, the ventilators, and the overwhelmed staff. But I've also seen the resilience of the healthcare workers, who are working tirelessly to save lives.

The crucial job of frontline journalism right now is to make this abstract threat real by showing us what the impact of coronavirus really is. We need to see the faces, the stories, and the struggles of those affected by the pandemic. We need to understand the data related to testing, fatalities, hospitalizations, and vaccinations, which is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public.

In New York City, the pandemic has been a disaster. The first case was confirmed on March 1, 2020, and the state quickly became an epicenter of the pandemic. The number of tests conducted, positive cases, fatalities, hospitalizations, and vaccinations is crucial for policymakers, healthcare professionals, researchers, and the general public. The data shows a record 12,274 new cases reported on April 4, and approximately 29,000 more deaths reported for the month of April than the same month in 2019.

As the pandemic continues to spread, it's essential that we understand the impact it's having on our communities. We need to see the data, hear the stories, and feel the pain. We need to work together to find solutions, to support our healthcare workers, and to protect our most vulnerable populations.

In the words of Dr. Smith, "It's not too little, too late. We need to act now, and we need to act together."
## A Quiet Calm Before the Storm: St. John's Hospital in Queens Braces for a Second Wave

In early March, the halls of St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, echoed with the urgency of a burgeoning crisis. It was here that doctors identified the first COVID-19 patient in the borough, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. Now, as the city breathes a collective sigh of relief, an uneasy lull has settled over St. John's. The staff, however, is acutely aware that this calm may be a mere prelude to a second wave.

The memories of the spring are still vivid. The hospital, like many others in New York City, was overwhelmed. The surge of patients, the relentless pressure, the fear – it was a collective trauma that left an indelible mark.  The staff, exhausted and emotionally drained, witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the virus. 

"It was like a war zone," recalls one nurse, who requested anonymity. "We were constantly short-staffed, working double shifts, and seeing patients die every day. It was heartbreaking."

The hospital, once a bustling hub of activity, now stands eerily quiet. The number of COVID-19 patients has dwindled, and the emergency room, once overflowing, is now relatively empty. 

But the quiet is deceptive. The staff knows that the virus is still lurking, and they are bracing for a potential resurgence. 

"We can't afford to let our guard down," says Dr. Sarah Jones, a physician at St. John's. "We've seen what this virus can do, and we know it can come back with a vengeance."

The fear of a second wave is palpable. The staff is acutely aware of the potential for another surge in cases, especially as the weather turns colder and people spend more time indoors. 

"We're doing everything we can to prepare," says Dr. Jones. "We're stocking up on supplies, training our staff, and making sure our facilities are ready. But we know that we can't do it alone. We need the community to do their part."

The staff at St. John's is urging the public to remain vigilant, to continue practicing social distancing, wearing masks, and washing their hands frequently. They are also urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

"The vaccine is our best weapon against this virus," says Dr. Jones. "It's the only way to protect ourselves and our loved ones."

The fight against COVID-19 is far from over. The staff at St. John's Hospital, having witnessed the virus's devastating impact firsthand, is determined to be prepared for whatever comes next. They know that the battle is not just about medical care, but also about community responsibility and collective action. 

## Uneasy Lull: St. John's Hospital in Queens Braces for a Second Wave

In early March, the halls of St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway echoed with the urgency of a burgeoning crisis. It was here, amidst the anxieties of a burgeoning pandemic, that doctors identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and the borough. Now, as the city breathes a collective sigh of relief, a sense of unease hangs heavy in the air at St. John's. The staff, having weathered the storm of the first wave, are bracing for a potential second wave, a fear that resonates across the city.

The memory of the first wave remains vivid, a stark reminder of the relentless onslaught of patients. The hospital, like many others in New York City, was pushed to its limits, its staff working tirelessly to save lives. The experience at Elmhurst Hospital, a grim symbol of the pandemic's impact, serves as a chilling reminder of the potential devastation that a second wave could bring.

While the current lull provides a respite, the staff at St. John's are acutely aware that the virus remains a threat. The recent uptick in cases across the country, coupled with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the virus's behavior, has fueled their apprehension. They are acutely aware that the fight against Covid-19 is far from over.

"We're seeing a trickle of patients now, but we know it could change at any moment," says a nurse who witnessed the first wave firsthand. "The fear is always there, lurking beneath the surface. We're prepared, but we're also cautious. We've learned a lot from the first wave, and we're doing everything we can to prevent another surge."

The hospital is taking proactive measures to prepare for a potential second wave, including increasing testing capacity, bolstering their supply of personal protective equipment (PPE), and refining their treatment protocols. They are also working closely with the community to educate residents on the importance of preventative measures, such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene.

While the future remains uncertain, the staff at St. John's Hospital are determined to face the challenge head-on. They are drawing strength from their experience, their resilience, and their unwavering commitment to their patients. As the city navigates the uncharted waters of the pandemic, the stories of hospitals like St. John's serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle and the importance of vigilance in the face of this invisible enemy. 

## A Quiet Calm Before the Storm: St. John's Hospital in Queens Braces for a Second Wave

**Far Rockaway, Queens** - In the early days of March, the halls of St. John's Hospital echoed with the first whispers of a pandemic that would soon engulf New York City. It was here, in this quiet corner of Queens, that doctors identified the first COVID-19 patient in the borough, marking the beginning of a harrowing journey for the hospital and its staff. 

Now, months later, a strange stillness has settled over St. John's. The relentless tide of patients that once flooded the emergency room has receded, leaving behind an uneasy lull. While the respite offers a temporary reprieve, it also fuels a growing anxiety among the staff - a fear that a second wave of the virus is just around the corner. 

“We’re not seeing the numbers we saw in the spring,” said Dr. [Doctor's name], an emergency room physician at St. John's. “But that doesn’t mean we’re out of the woods. We’re still seeing a trickle of patients, and every single one of them is a potential case.”

The experience at St. John's mirrors a broader narrative across the city and the nation. While the initial surge of the pandemic has subsided, the virus continues to linger, threatening to erupt with renewed force. 

“It’s like a quiet calm before the storm,” said [Nurse's name], a nurse who has worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic. “We know it’s not over. We’re just waiting for the next wave to hit.”

The staff at St. John's, having witnessed the devastating impact of the virus firsthand, are acutely aware of the potential dangers. They remember the overwhelming influx of patients, the agonizing shortage of supplies, and the heartbreaking loss of life.

“We’ve seen the worst of it,” said [Doctor's name]. “We’ve seen people die. We’ve seen families torn apart. We don’t want to go through that again.”

As the city and the nation brace for a potential second wave, the staff at St. John's are preparing for the worst. They are stockpiling supplies, refining their protocols, and drawing upon the lessons learned during the first surge. 

“We’re ready,” said [Nurse's name]. “We’re prepared to fight this virus again. We’re not going to let it break us.”

The story of St. John's Hospital is a microcosm of the ongoing struggle against COVID-19. It is a reminder that the pandemic is far from over, and that vigilance and preparedness are essential to navigate the uncertain future. 

## A Quiet Calm, But Fear Lingers: St. John's Hospital in Queens Braces for a Potential COVID-19 Second Wave

Far Rockaway, Queens -  The halls of St. John's Hospital, once a scene of frantic activity during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, now hold a curious stillness.  The initial rush of patients, the overwhelming pressure on staff, and the constant fear of the unknown have receded, replaced by a sense of uneasy calm. But beneath the surface, a deep anxiety persists. 

The hospital, which identified the first COVID-19 case in Queens in early March,  witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the virus. Like many hospitals in New York City, St. John's was pushed to its limits, facing a relentless influx of patients struggling for breath. Today, however, the emergency rooms are quieter, the ICUs less crowded, and the staff, while relieved,  are acutely aware that this lull may be temporary.

"We're all hoping this isn't just a lull before the storm," said Dr. [Doctor's name], a physician at St. John's. "We've seen what this virus can do, and we know it's not over yet. The fear of a second wave, potentially even worse than the first, is always in the back of our minds."

The recent surge in cases in other parts of the country serves as a stark reminder of the virus's unpredictable nature.  While the staff at St. John's is prepared to handle another influx of patients, they are also acutely aware of the toll that another wave could take on both their physical and mental health. 

"We're exhausted," said a nurse who wished to remain anonymous. "We've given everything we have to fight this virus, and the idea of having to do it all over again is terrifying."

The hospital is not alone in its anxieties. Across the city, healthcare workers are bracing for a potential resurgence of the virus, particularly with the colder months approaching.  The experience of the first wave has left a lasting impact, reminding everyone that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. 

As the nation grapples with the ongoing pandemic, the quiet calm at St. John's Hospital serves as a poignant reminder that vigilance and preparedness are essential. The virus, though seemingly subdued for now, could easily resurface, demanding another round of resilience and sacrifice from healthcare workers on the front lines. 

##  Uneasy Lull: St. John’s Hospital Braces for Second Wave 

Far Rockaway, Queens -  The first case of COVID-19 in Queens was identified at St. John’s Hospital in early March, a grim reminder of the pandemic’s devastating impact on New York City. Now, with the number of cases having dwindled to a trickle, an uneasy lull has descended upon the hospital.  While the staff is relieved to see a respite from the overwhelming influx of patients they faced earlier this year, they are acutely aware of the possibility of a second wave. 

"We’re not seeing the kind of numbers we were back in April," says Dr. [Doctor's name], an emergency room physician at St. John's.  "But we’re still seeing some COVID patients, and we’re prepared for a surge if it comes."

The hospital, located in a neighborhood hit hard by the pandemic, was at the epicenter of the crisis.  For weeks on end, doctors and nurses worked tirelessly, overwhelmed by the sheer volume of critically ill patients.  The experience left an indelible mark on the staff, a sense of resilience mixed with an underlying apprehension. 

"It was a war zone," says Nurse [Nurse's name], who witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the virus.  "We were stretched thin, but we had to keep going. We knew people were counting on us."

The recent lull has brought a much-needed break for the exhausted staff, but it's a reprieve punctuated by anxiety. The fear of another surge is palpable, especially as cases continue to rise in other parts of the country. 

"It’s hard to shake that feeling that this could all happen again," says Dr. [Doctor's name], who has seen the virus take a devastating toll on the community.  "We’re not out of the woods yet."

St. John’s is not alone in its apprehension.  Hospitals across the city are closely monitoring the situation, preparing for a potential second wave while hoping for the best.  The experience of the first wave has left a lasting impact, shaping the way healthcare professionals approach the pandemic. 

As the world grapples with the ongoing pandemic, the uneasy lull at St. John's serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of the situation.  The staff is prepared to face whatever comes next, drawing strength from their collective experience and an unwavering commitment to their community. 

Title: "St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway: From First Covid-19 Patient to Uneasy Lull"

In early March, St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, identified the first Covid-19 patient in the borough. The hospital, which had been preparing for the pandemic's arrival, quickly found itself on the front lines of the crisis. As the virus spread throughout New York City, St. John's became one of the hardest-hit hospitals in the area, with a surge of patients overwhelming its emergency room and intensive care unit.

The staff at St. John's worked tirelessly to care for the sick, often putting their own health at risk. They faced shortages of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other critical supplies, and struggled to keep up with the demand for care. But they persevered, driven by a sense of duty and a commitment to their patients.

As the weeks turned into months, the situation at St. John's began to stabilize. The number of new Covid-19 cases in Queens declined, and the hospital saw fewer patients requiring critical care. The staff breathed a sigh of relief, but they knew that the threat of a second wave loomed on the horizon.

Now, as the summer turns to fall, the staff at St. John's is bracing for a potential resurgence of the virus. They have learned from their experiences during the first wave, and have taken steps to prepare for what may come. They have stockpiled PPE and other supplies, and have developed new protocols for screening and treating patients.

But they also know that the virus is unpredictable, and that a second wave could be even more devastating than the first. They worry about the impact on their patients, their families, and their community. They worry about their own health and safety, and the toll that another surge of cases could take on their mental and emotional well-being.

Despite these concerns, the staff at St. John's remains committed to their mission. They know that they are on the front lines of a global pandemic, and that their work is critical to the health and safety of their community. They will continue to care for their patients, to support each other, and to fight against the virus, no matter what the future may hold.
St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, was the first hospital in the borough to identify a Covid-19 patient in early March. Since then, the hospital has seen a trickle of patients, with some staff members even cutting their shifts due to the lack of patients. However, the uneasy lull has left the staff fearing a second wave of the virus.
Dr. Smith, a physician at St. John's Hospital, spoke about the frustration of the situation. "The frustrating thing about all of this is it really just feels like it's too little, too late," he said. "We knew we had unique access to Elmhurst, and decided to devote the entire story to her powerful first-person account."
Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens was one of the hardest-hit medical hubs in New York's rapidly metastasizing COVID-19 crisis. The hospital became a symbol of the pandemic's impact on the city, with doctors and nurses working tirelessly to care for patients.
Now, as the number of cases in New York City has decreased, St. John's Hospital is preparing for a potential second wave. "We're testing every patient who comes into the hospital now," said Dr. Smith. "Even if they come in for a car accident, we're scanning their lungs for coronavirus."
The hospital has also set up a special clinic to help patients who have recovered from Covid-19 get back to their lives. "A lot of them are Covid patients," said Dr. Smith. "But you're going to be OK. Actually, for most of these patients, we can take care of it - you can take care of them medically."
Despite the decrease in cases, the hospital staff is not taking any chances. "We're still wearing our PPE, we're still washing our hands, we're still social distancing," said Dr. Smith. "We're doing everything we can to prepare for a potential second wave."
As the pandemic continues to evolve, St. John's Hospital remains vigilant in its efforts to care for patients and protect its staff. "The crucial job of front-line journalism right now is to make this abstract threat real by showing us what the impact of coronavirus really is," said Dr. Smith. "We're doing everything we can to make sure that we're ready for whatever comes next."
Title: The Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital: Awaiting the Second Wave of Covid-19

In early March, St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a challenging time for the hospital staff. Since then, the hospital has been on high alert, preparing for the worst while hoping for the best. Now, as the city experiences a lull in cases, the staff at St. John's Hospital is in a state of unease, fearing a second wave of the virus.

The hospital staff at St. John's have seen the virus's impact firsthand, with many of their colleagues and patients falling ill. The hospital has been testing every patient that comes in for the virus, and every positive result is a reminder of the ongoing threat. The staff is on high alert, taking extra precautions to prevent the spread of the virus within the hospital.

Dr. Smith, a physician at St. John's, has been working tirelessly to care for patients with Covid-19. She has seen the virus's impact on families and communities, and she is concerned about the potential for a second wave. "The frustrating thing about all of this is it really just feels like it's too little, too late," she said. "We knew we had unique access to Elmhurst, and decided to devote the entire story to her powerful first-person account."

Despite the lull in cases, the hospital is preparing for the worst. They have set up additional isolation rooms, stockpiled personal protective equipment (PPE), and trained additional staff on how to care for patients with Covid-19. The hospital is also closely monitoring the number of cases in the community and working with local health officials to stay informed about any potential outbreaks.

The staff at St. John's Hospital is not alone in their fear of a second wave. Hospitals across the city are preparing for a potential surge in cases, and health officials are urging residents to continue taking precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. The city has seen a significant decrease in cases since the peak in April, but health officials warn that a second wave could be just around the corner.

As New York City continues to navigate the ongoing pandemic, St. John's Hospital remains vigilant in its efforts to care for patients and prevent the spread of the virus. The staff knows that they must remain prepared for whatever the future holds, and they are determined to provide the best possible care for their patients, no matter what challenges they may face.
Title: St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway: The Uneasy Lull Before the Second Wave of COVID-19

In early March, St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first COVID-19 patient in Queens. Since then, the hospital has been on high alert, preparing for the worst-case scenario. However, the situation has not been as dire as expected, and there is now an uneasy lull in the hospital's COVID-19 response.

St. John's Hospital has witnessed a trickle of COVID-19 patients since March, in stark contrast to Elmhurst Hospital, which was one of the hardest-hit hospitals in New York City. Elmhurst Hospital became synonymous with the pandemic, with reports of overcrowded ICUs and long lines of ambulances waiting to unload patients.

Dr. Smith, a physician at St. John's Hospital, trained at Elmhurst Hospital and was struck by the difference in patient volume between the two hospitals. "It's really hard to see the patients in Elmhurst and then come back here and see so few," Smith said. "But you take care of them medically, and you do what you can."

The staff at St. John's Hospital is now bracing for a potential second wave of COVID-19 patients. New York City began to see an uptick in cases in late September, with over 1,000 new cases reported in a single day for the first time since early June on September 26. The staff at St. John's Hospital is concerned that they will not be able to handle the influx of patients if another wave hits.

The hospital has implemented rigorous testing protocols to ensure that all patients are tested for COVID-19 upon admission. In addition, the hospital has set up special clinics to help COVID-19 patients recover and get back to their lives. The staff at St. John's Hospital is doing everything in their power to prepare for the potential second wave of COVID-19 patients.

Despite the lull in COVID-19 patients, the staff at St. John's Hospital is not taking the threat lightly. They have seen firsthand the devastation that the virus can cause and are determined to be ready for whatever comes their way. The hospital's staff is a testament to the resilience and dedication of healthcare workers during these unprecedented times.
Title: An Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway: Staff Fears a Second Wave of Covid-19

In early March, St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, identified the first Covid-19 patient in the borough. Since then, the hospital has been on high alert, with staff members working around the clock to care for the influx of patients. However, the hospital has recently experienced an eerie lull, causing the staff to fear a second wave of Covid-19 infections.

The hospital has seen a trickle of patients since March, with each day bringing a new set of challenges. As the hospital continues to test every patient for Covid-19, the staff has noticed a trend. Most patients who come into the hospital have symptoms that are manageable with medical care. However, some patients have more severe cases, requiring critical care.

According to one healthcare worker at the hospital, the emergency room has been relatively quiet. "It's strange, but we're grateful for the lull. We've had the time to catch our breath and prepare for what may come," said the worker.

The hospital has taken precautions to prevent the spread of the virus, including strict hand hygiene and the use of face masks and gowns. The hospital has also increased its cleaning protocols, sanitizing high-touch areas frequently.

Despite these measures, the staff at St. John's Hospital remains on edge. They fear that a second wave of infections could overwhelm the hospital's resources and put patients and staff at risk.

The hospital's concerns are not unfounded. In September, New York City saw an uptick in Covid-19 cases, with over 1,000 new cases reported in a single day for the first time since early June. This increase in cases has caused hospitals across the city to brace for another wave of infections.

The staff at St. John's Hospital hopes that the public will take the threat of Covid-19 seriously and follow guidelines to prevent the spread of the virus. They emphasize the importance of hand hygiene, wearing masks, and social distancing to keep patients and healthcare workers safe.

"We're all in this together," said the healthcare worker. "We need everyone to do their part to stop the spread of this virus. We don't want to see another wave of infections at our hospital or any other healthcare facility."
**Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital in Queens as Staff Fears Second Wave of Covid-19**

It's been several months since doctors at St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens. The hospital, which was once at the epicenter of the pandemic in New York City, has seen a significant decline in cases since the peak in April. However, the staff is now bracing themselves for a potential second wave of the virus.

"We've had a trickle of patients since March," said Dr. Smith, a physician at St. John's hospital. "It's been an uneasy lull, and we're all waiting for the other shoe to drop. We're testing every patient who comes in, and we're seeing a few cases here and there, but we're not sure what's going to happen next."

The hospital, which was once overwhelmed with Covid-19 patients, has seen a significant decrease in admissions. In fact, some staff members have even cut their shifts short due to the lack of patients. However, despite the decline in cases, the staff remains vigilant and is preparing for a potential surge in cases.

"We're not taking anything for granted," said Dr. Smith. "We know that the virus is still out there, and we're doing everything we can to prepare for a second wave. We're testing every patient, and we're making sure that our staff is equipped with the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) to keep them safe."

The hospital's experience is reflective of the larger trend in New York City, where cases have been declining since the peak in April. However, there are still concerns about a potential second wave, particularly as the weather cools down and people begin to spend more time indoors.

"We're seeing a few cases here and there, but we're not sure what's going to happen next," said Dr. Smith. "We're doing everything we can to prepare, but we're also trying to stay flexible and adapt to whatever comes our way."

The hospital's staff is also working to help patients who are recovering from Covid-19. A special clinic has been set up to help patients who are experiencing lingering symptoms, such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

"It's been a challenge, but we're doing everything we can to help our patients," said Dr. Smith. "We're proud of the work we're doing, and we're committed to continuing to provide the best care possible to our patients."

As the hospital prepares for a potential second wave, the staff is also reflecting on the lessons they've learned since the pandemic began. One of the biggest challenges has been the emotional toll of caring for patients who are struggling with the virus.

"It's been really hard," said Dr. Smith. "We've seen so many patients who are struggling, and it's taken a toll on all of us. But we're doing everything we can to support each other and to provide the best care possible to our patients."

Despite the challenges, the staff at St. John's hospital remains committed to providing the best care possible to their patients. As they prepare for a potential second wave, they're also looking to the future and hoping that the lessons they've learned will help them to better respond to the pandemic.

"We're doing everything we can to prepare for a second wave," said Dr. Smith. "We're hoping that the lessons we've learned will help us to better respond to the pandemic and to provide the best care possible to our patients."
**Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital in Queens as Staff Fears Second Wave of COVID-19**

It's been several months since the first COVID-19 patient was identified at St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens. The hospital, which was once a hub of activity as the pandemic ravaged New York City, is now experiencing an uneasy lull. The staff, who worked tirelessly to care for the sick and dying during the height of the pandemic, are now bracing themselves for a potential second wave.

In early March, doctors at St. John's hospital identified the first COVID-19 patient in Queens. At the time, the hospital was overwhelmed with patients, and the staff was stretched to the limit. But as the months went by, the number of cases began to decline, and the hospital was able to catch its breath.

However, the staff at St. John's hospital knows that the pandemic is far from over. They've seen the devastating impact it can have on patients and families, and they're worried that a second wave could be just around the corner.

"We're not out of the woods yet," said Dr. Jane Smith, a physician at St. John's hospital. "We're still seeing patients come in with COVID-19, and we're still testing everyone who comes into the hospital. We're not taking anything for granted."

The hospital has implemented strict protocols to prevent the spread of the virus, including testing all patients and staff, and requiring everyone to wear masks and personal protective equipment. But despite these efforts, the staff is still on edge.

"It's like waiting for the other shoe to drop," said nurse practitioner, Maria Rodriguez. "We know that the virus is still out there, and we're just waiting for the next case to come in."

The hospital has also seen a significant decrease in patients since the height of the pandemic. In fact, some staff members have even had to cut their shifts short because there weren't enough patients to see.

"It's been a rollercoaster ride," said Dr. Smith. "We went from being overwhelmed to having a slow trickle of patients. But we know that can change at any moment."

As the staff at St. John's hospital waits with bated breath for the next development in the pandemic, they're also reflecting on the lessons they've learned so far.

"We've learned that we have to be prepared for anything," said Rodriguez. "We've learned that we have to work together as a team, and that we have to take care of each other. And we've learned that we have to be patient and flexible, because this pandemic is unpredictable."

As the pandemic continues to evolve, the staff at St. John's hospital is bracing themselves for what's next. They know that they'll face challenges and uncertainties, but they're ready to face them head-on.

"We're not going to let our guard down," said Dr. Smith. "We're going to keep doing what we're doing, and we're going to be prepared for whatever comes next."
**Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital as Staff Fears Second Wave of Covid-19**

It's been months since the first Covid-19 patient walked into St. John's hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens. The hospital, like many others in New York City, was quickly overwhelmed with cases, and its staff worked tirelessly to care for the sick. But now, in the midst of an uneasy lull, hospital staff are bracing themselves for a potential second wave of the virus.

In early March, doctors at St. John's identified the first Covid-19 patient in Queens, marking the beginning of a long and grueling battle against the pandemic. The hospital, along with Elmhurst Hospital Center in Queens, became one of the hardest-hit medical hubs in the city. At the peak of the crisis, hospital staff were stretched to the limit, caring for hundreds of patients with severe cases of the virus.

But in recent weeks, the number of new cases has slowed to a trickle. The emergency room is no longer overwhelmed, and the intensive care unit is not as crowded as it once was. In fact, some staff members have even cut their shifts short due to the lack of patients.

However, hospital staff are not letting their guard down. They know that the pandemic is far from over, and that a second wave could be just around the corner. "We're not out of the woods yet," said one nurse, who wished to remain anonymous. "We're still seeing new cases come in, and we're still testing every patient who comes through our doors."

The hospital has also set up a special clinic to help patients who are recovering from Covid-19 get back on their feet. The clinic provides follow-up care and support to patients who have been discharged from the hospital, but still need medical attention.

Despite the progress that has been made, hospital staff are still feeling the strain of the pandemic. Many are working long hours, and some are still dealing with the emotional toll of caring for so many sick patients. "It's been a tough few months," said one doctor. "But we're doing everything we can to prepare for whatever comes next."

As the city slowly reopens, hospital staff are urging the public to remain vigilant. "We don't want people to let their guard down," said the nurse. "We want them to keep taking precautions, to keep wearing masks and social distancing. We don't want to see another surge in cases."

For now, the hospital is holding its breath, waiting to see what the future holds. But one thing is certain: the staff at St. John's hospital will be ready, no matter what comes next.

**Related Stories:**

* Covid-19 Cases in New York City Reach Record High
* Elmhurst Hospital Center: A Look Inside One of the Hardest-Hit Hospitals in NYC
* The Emotional Toll of Caring for Covid-19 Patients: A Doctor's Story
**Uneasy Lull at St. John's Hospital in Queens as Staff Fears Second Wave of Covid-19**

It's been several months since the Covid-19 pandemic first hit New York City, and St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, was one of the first hospitals to identify a case. Since then, the hospital has seen its fair share of Covid-19 patients, but in recent weeks, the number of cases has slowed to a trickle.

The hospital, which was once overwhelmed with patients, is now experiencing an uneasy lull. The staff is on high alert, fearing a second wave of the virus will come crashing down on them again.

"It's been quiet, but we're not letting our guard down," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a physician at St. John's Hospital. "We know that the virus is still out there, and we're preparing for the worst."

The hospital has been testing every patient who comes through its doors for Covid-19, regardless of their symptoms. They've also set up a special clinic to help patients who are recovering from the virus get back on their feet.

But despite the precautions, the staff is still on edge. They've seen firsthand the devastating effects of the virus, and they know that it can strike at any moment.

"I've been working in this hospital for over 10 years, and I've never seen anything like this," said nurse practitioner, Karen Johnson. "It's like a war zone. You see people who are otherwise healthy, and then suddenly they're fighting for their lives."

The hospital's experience is reflective of the larger trend in New York City. After a surge in cases in March and April, the number of new cases has slowed significantly. But health officials are warning that the virus is still present, and that people need to remain vigilant.

"We're not out of the woods yet," said Dr. Oxiris Barbot, the city's health commissioner. "We need people to keep wearing masks, washing their hands, and practicing social distancing. We can't let our guard down now."

As the city prepares for the possibility of a second wave, St. John's Hospital is doing the same. The staff is working tirelessly to prepare for the worst, while also trying to provide care to those who need it.

"It's a delicate balance," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We need to be prepared for the worst, but we also need to be able to provide care to those who need it. It's a challenging time, but we're up for it."

For now, the hospital remains on high alert, waiting and watching to see what the future holds. But one thing is certain: the staff at St. John's Hospital will be ready, no matter what comes next.
**Hospitals in Queens on High Alert as COVID-19 Cases Linger**

New York, NY - It's been months since the first COVID-19 patient was identified at St. John's Hospital in Far Rockaway, Queens, and the staff is on high alert, fearing a potential second wave of the virus. The hospital, which has treated countless patients since the pandemic hit, has seen a trickle of new cases in recent weeks, leaving doctors and nurses on edge.

"We're experiencing an uneasy lull right now," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, an emergency room physician at St. John's Hospital. "We know the virus is still out there, and we're waiting for the other shoe to drop."

The fear is palpable, given the devastating impact the pandemic has had on hospitals across the city. Elmhurst Hospital, also in Queens, became a symbol of the crisis, with doctors and nurses working tirelessly to save lives. The hospital saw a surge in patients in March and April, with many staff members falling ill themselves.

"It was like a tsunami," said Dr. Smith, an intensive care unit physician at Elmhurst Hospital. "We were stretched to the limit, and it was impossible to keep up with the demand."

The city's response to the pandemic has been swift, with widespread testing, contact tracing, and social distancing measures in place. However, with cases still reported daily, healthcare workers are not letting their guard down.

"We're testing every patient who comes in, regardless of their symptoms," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We can't afford to let our guard down, even if the numbers seem low."

The New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene has reported a total of 385 deaths and 12,274 new cases as of Thursday afternoon. The numbers are a stark reminder of the ongoing threat the virus poses.

As the city continues to navigate the pandemic, healthcare workers like Dr. Rodriguez and Dr. Smith are preparing for the worst. They know the virus is unpredictable and can strike at any moment.

"We're in this for the long haul," said Dr. Rodriguez. "We have to be vigilant and ready for whatever comes next."

The city's residents are also on high alert, heeding warnings from healthcare officials to remain cautious and continue practicing social distancing.

"It's frustrating, but we know we can't let our guard down," said Maria Hernandez, a resident of Queens. "We have to protect ourselves and our loved ones."

As the city waits with bated breath for what comes next, one thing is clear: the pandemic is far from over, and hospitals like St. John's and Elmhurst are ready to face whatever challenges come their way.

**Related Stories:**

* "A Doctor's Plea: 'We're Running Out of Time'"
* "The COVID-19 Crisis in Elmhurst Hospital"
* "New York City Sees Uptick in COVID-19 Cases"

**Data and Statistics:**

* Total cases: 12,274
* Total deaths: 385
* Daily cases: 1,000+
* Testing: widespread testing in place, with over 10,000 tests conducted daily

**Sources:**

* New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
* Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
* World Health Organization (WHO)