Town Remains in the “Yellow” Moderate Risk Designation
WHITMAN — Emergency Management Director and Fire Chief Timothy Grenno and the Whitman Board of Health report that the Town of Whitman has seen a rise in positive COVID-19 cases recently, and are urging the community to follow COVID-19 prevention guidance.
At this time, the town is still designated a “yellow”, moderate risk community by the Commonwealth. Since receiving this designation, the town has worked in close collaboration with the Department of Public Health to address the recent rise in the prevalence of the novel coronavirus in our community.
According to data shared by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on Wednesday, there have been 14 confirmed positive cases of the virus in Whitman over the past two weeks.
“We are strongly encouraging residents to take the necessary safety precautions to stymie the spread of COVID-19 in our community,” Chief Grenno said. “This includes wearing a mask or face covering when out in public, practicing social distancing and — most importantly — staying home if you are sick.”
COVID-19 prevention tips from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health include:
- Remember that an infected individual can spread COVID-19 before they have symptoms, which is why social distancing, maintaining a minimum of six feet from others, is critical.
- Those who must go out are urged to:
- Avoid gathering in groups
- Maintain six feet from people outside your household
- Do not shake hands or hug
- Wash your hands often
- Those who are at a high risk for COVID-19, including those over the age of 65 and with underlying health conditions, are advised to stay home and avoid non-essential tasks and errands
- Wear a mask in indoor and outdoor spaces where social distancing from people outside your household is not possible. This does not apply to those under the age of two and with underlying health conditions.
- Face coverings should:
- Cover the nose and mouth
- Fit snugly and comfortably against the side of the face
- Be secured with either ties or ear loops
- Permit breathing without difficulty
- Be able to be washed and machine dried without damage. Face masks should be washed regularly depending on the amount of use.
COVID-19 Information Resources
Whitman officials encourage everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:
- Town website: https://www.whitman-ma.gov/
- Whitman’s COVID-19 Resources and Information website: https://whitmancovid19.com/
- 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
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