GEORGETOWN — Health Agent Deb Rogers and Police Chief and Emergency Management Director Donald Cudmore wish to remind residents of health guidelines recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Health (DPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) following a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases in town.
Town officials are urging residents to continue engaging in public health practices in order to further to reduce the spread of the virus in town, including social distancing, wearing a cloth face covering and frequent hand washing. Residents are also reminded of the availability of free testing through the state’s Stop the Spread testing initiative. To find a testing location, click here.
“We encourage Georgetown residents to enjoy the outdoors and take advantage of the summer weather while it lasts, but in doing so they should remain mindful of the need to protect their health and the health of those around them by renewing their commitment to adhering to public health guidelines,” said Rogers.
In addition, Gov. Charlie Baker announced last week new, stricter statewide rules for public and private gatherings and targeted community guidance. These rules reduce the limit on outdoor gatherings from 100 to 50 people statewide, while the indoor gatherings limit remains at 25 people. These limits apply to all types of gatherings, on both public and private property. Face coverings should be worn during gatherings.
Visitors are also reminded that parking at American Legion Park is restricted to residents only. Social distancing measures should still be practiced, and all sports/recreation equipment and toys should be cleaned regularly.
Face masks or cloth face coverings are currently required in the State of Massachusetts in public when social distancing is not feasible in order to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Anyone in public unable to distance themselves at least six feet away from others must wear a face covering. The Governor’s statewide order requiring face masks or cloth face coverings to be worn applies to both indoor and outdoor public spaces.
Those under the age of 2 or with certain health conditions identified by the DPH are exempt from the statewide order. However, those with pre-existing conditions should be practice extreme caution, as certain conditions present an increased risk of severe illness or death caused by COVID-19.
Masks should not be worn by young children under the age of 2, persons with difficulty breathing, or those who are unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.
“The use of face masks in public spaces is just another step one can take towards slowing the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” Chief Cudmore said. “Wash your hands, keep your social circle small, and above all stay home if you are feeling unwell.”
Residents should continue to follow recommendations made by the DPH and the CDC:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, including under your fingernails. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol content) can be used when soap and water are not available.
- Keep your hands away from your face.
- Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing with a tissue and discard it immediately. Cough into the sleeve over your elbow instead of your hand. Wash your hands often when coughing and sneezing.
- Everyone should continue to monitor their health daily, which includes watching for symptoms including cough, shortness of breath, and fever. For additional symptoms that may be indicative of a COVID-19 infection, click here.
- If you feel ill or are exhibiting symptoms, stay home.
- If symptoms develop, take your temperature. Wait to do so until 30 minutes after exercising or taking medications that could lower your temperature.
- Click here for additional guidance from the CDC, should symptoms develop.
For more information, visit the DPH website by clicking here and the CDC’s website by clicking here.
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