MARION — Town Administrator James McGrail and the Marion Board of Health would like provide residents with an update on the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) situation in Marion.
There are currently three confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Marion.
The individuals are currently in isolation per Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) orders. Close contacts (defined as someone who has spent more than 15 minutes within six feet of a positive case) have been identified, contacted by health officials, and are adhering to DPH orders for quarantine. Those who are quarantined will be monitored by Marion health officials on a regular basis to limit the risk of spread.
In order to protect the residents’ medical privacy rights, no additional information can be disclosed.
The availability of testing supplies remains limited in Massachusetts and across the country. The Commonwealth is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and prioritizing the testing of healthcare workers and hospitalized patients. As a result, the Board of Health notes that the actual number of COVID-19 cases is likely higher and is growing. It is fair to assume that there are many others who carry the virus without knowing it.
Town Updates
On Thursday, April 9, the Board of Selectmen voted to to postpone the May 11 Annual Town Meeting and the May 15 Annual Town Election. The new dates will be announced at a later date.
On Wednesday, April 8, the town announced the extension of the due date for tax payments. The original deadline for tax payments due on May 1, 2020 has been extended to June 1, 2020.
On Friday, April 3, the town announced the closure of all parking lots associated with beach parking as an additional step to encourage social distancing during COVID-19. The order remains in effect until further notice. Lots associated with parking at Silvershell Beach, Planting Island and the Beach at Oakdale Avenue are closed. The order does not include public parking at Island Wharf and Old Landing.
Additionally, all town offices, the Elizabeth Taber Library, Natural History Museum and Community Center are closed until May 4. All non-essential businesses in Marion are also closed until May 4 per an order by Gov. Baker.
Social Distancing and Prevention
All residents are advised to continue to stay home in order to curb the spread of this deadly virus. Residents may continue to conduct essential activities such as grocery shopping or picking up medication.
The CDC has modified its guidance around face masks and coverings, and now recommends that all people — whether they are sick or not — wear a face covering of some kind whenever they leave their home. Doing so can help lessen the risk of contracting the virus through respiratory droplets.
All residents are also encouraged to continue to practice aggressive social distancing — maintaining a distance of approximately six feet from other people — and appropriate personal hygiene.
For more information, visit the DPH website by clicking here and the CDC’s website by clicking here.
COVID-19 Information Resources
Marion officials encourage everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:
- Town website: www.marionma.gov/
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health: www.mass.gov/covid-19
- Massachusetts 2-1-1 general COVID-19 information: Click here or dial 2-1-1 (24/7)
- Sign up for the Massachusetts COVID-19 Text Message Notification System to receive important updates: text “COVIDMA” to 888-777
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
Additional updates will be provided as information becomes available.
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