A completed intubation box, which will be provided to hospitals in need to support their efforts to care for COVID-19 patients. (Courtesy Photo Town of Brookline) -
Brookline resident Mike Cheung (left) donated 600 masks to Brookline’s Department of Public Works. The masks were accepted by DPW General Foreman Steve Bairos. (Courtesy Photo Town of Brookline) 
BROOKLINE — The Town of Brookline seeks to provide regular updates to residents on the town’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
There are currently 237 positive cases of coronavirus that have been identified among Brookline residents, and 18 of those people have died as a result of COVID-19.
Further information, including age and race data of confirmed cases, is available at brooklinecovid19.com/cases.
Brookline EOC Helping Bring Intubation Boxes to Medical Professionals
The town’s Emergency Operations Center has partnered with a resident, Joseph Siegel, to help store and distribute intubation boxes that will fulfill a critical need among medical professionals caring for those sick with COVID-19.
The devices are designed to cover a patient during intubation, preventing the spread of the virus through airborne fluids and lessening the risk medical teams face when placing a patient on a ventilator.
“We were happy to support the effort to get these essential supplies to medical professionals in need,” Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director John Sullivan said. “This has truly been a team effort, which was made possible by Mr. Siegel and his associates, and the entire EOC is proud to be involved in this project.”
DPW Receives Mask Donation
Brookline resident and former Department of Public Works seasonal employee Mike Cheung, who now works in the public health field, generously donated 600 masks recently to the DPW for staff to wear as they continue to fulfill their essential duties throughout the community.
“We’re extremely grateful for Mike’s generous donation, which will help protect both our DPW staff as well as those they come into contact with,” Town Administrator Mel Kleckner said.
Cheung delivered the masks to the DPW building on Hammond Street on Friday, April 24.
In a Public Place? Cover Your Face!
The Town of Brookline’s face covering requirement applies to everyone who’s older than age two.
Anyone outside of their home — whether on a public sidewalk, in a park, or especially inside a store or other essential business — should have their nose and mouth covered at all times.
“Covering your face protects the health and safety of those around you more than anything,” said Dr. Swannie Jett, Brookline’s Director of Health and Human Services. “Choosing not to do is a selfish, short-sighted decision, so everyone — regardless of their age or health status — should be covering their face while outdoors to help reduce the risk of asymptomatic spread, and to protect those who may be more vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19.”
BIG Hosting “No-Sew” Mask-Making Event
Brookline Interactive Group is hosting a virtual craft-a-long next week, helping viewers to make their own fabric masks at home.
To participate, simply have two 100% cotton T-shirts and a pair of scissors, and follow along to turn the T-shirts into a mask. The masks will not require any sewing, and those who take part are asked to commit to making two additional masks to donate to those in need via GotMasksBrookline.
The event will take place on Monday, April 27, at 3 p.m. and is accessible via brooklineinteractive.org/live.
Boston Hospitals Emphasize Importance of Seeking Non-COVID Care
Boston area hospitals have partnered to remind everyone that the hospitals remain open and ready for patients suffering from all emergencies, not just those related to COVID-19.
Those experiencing symptoms that would require a trip to the emergency room under normal circumstances, including symptoms of a heart attack, stroke or significant injury, should absolutely still seek treatment for those concerns.
Click here to watch a video created by several area hospitals about the importance of seeking treatment for emergency issues, and the steps hospitals are taking to prevent the spread of COVID-19 within their facilities.
Friendly Caller Program Remains a Resource for Seniors Feeling Isolated
The Brookline Department of Public Health has partnered with FriendshipWorks to offer residents weekly check-ins via telephone to residents who are feeling isolated.
FriendshipWorks volunteers who normally visit isolated individuals in person have modified their work, and are available to call and check in on isolated residents each week in order foster social connections during the stay-at-home advisory.
Trained FriendshipWorks volunteers make regular phone calls to residents who qualify for the program. Additionally, volunteers for the Emergency Preparedness Buddies Program to help assist isolated residents who may not qualify for the FriendshipWorks program.
Additionally, the town has adapted its Emergency Preparedness Buddies Program to help assist isolated residents who may not qualify for the FriendshipWorks program.
Trained volunteers affiliated with the Brookline Medical Reserve Corps and Community Emergency Response Team are available to make regular phone calls (1-2 times/week) to isolated individuals who need extra social connection while practicing social distancing.
For more information about either program, please contact the COVID-19 Information Center at 617-879-5636 or email [email protected]
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