MERRIMAC — The Town of Merrimac urges residents to remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19 as the community remains at high risk for the disease.
According to public health data released on Thursday, Jan. 7, the Town’s designation remains at “Red,” indicating a “high risk” of spread in the community. The average daily incidence rate for the Town of Merrimac is 59.6 per 100,000 residents, up from 56.2 last week.
Merrimac officials report that there are currently 53 active cases of COVID-19 in the community. There have been a total of 232 cases in Merrimac since the start of the pandemic.
Residents are strongly encouraged to avoid high risk activities, especially indoor social, and all Massachusetts residents are under orders from the Governor to wear masks at all times while in public.
Additionally, Gov. Charlie Baker announced that temporary capacity and gathering limits put in place on Dec. 26 will be extended to Jan. 24. This includes restaurants, office spaces, retail businesses, places of worship and fitness and health clubs. To view all the full list of restrictions and limits, click here.
Residents are reminded to always take the following precautions to prevent further spread of COVID-19 in the community:
- Remember that an infected individual can spread COVID-19 before they have symptoms, which is why social distancing — maintaining a minimum of 6 feet from others — is critical.
- Those who must go out are urged to:
- Avoid gathering in groups
- Maintain 6 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 at all times.
- 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.
For more information about COVID-19 prevention and symptoms, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website here and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website here.
As always, Merrimac residents can learn the latest about the COVID-19 situation in Merrimac by visiting the town’s COVID-19 portal.
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