WINTHROP, Mass. (WBZ NewsRadio) — Public Health officials in Winthrop are urging residents to get tested for COVID-19 after two case clusters were identified in town.
As of Saturday, October 24th, town officials confirmed that 22 new cases of the disease are tied to social events at the Winthrop Elks, 191 Washington Avenue and the Pleasant Park Yacht Club, 562 Pleasant Street.
"Anyone who visited either place between October 15-18 is asked to self-isolate and to get tested for COVID-19," Public Health Director Meredith Hurley said.
"It's vital that anyone who visited either establishment during that time period get tested as soon as possible, and stay home until you receive your results,” Hurley added. “We take matters like this seriously, and will continue to work diligently with state public health officials to complete the contact tracing process. We will share any additional information as soon as it becomes available.”
All community members are being urged to take part in the free COVID-19 testing available at the McKenna Basketball Courts, 5 Walden Street. Testing is available at this site on the following days and times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 2-7 p.m. (drive-through) and Tuesday and Thursday from 2-7 p.m. (walk-up.) Testing providers are able to provide information in English and Spanish.
“All residents are asked to get tested if they have not already so that we can have a better understanding of how many cases there currently are in the community,” Hurley said. “This information will be vital as we create a plan to stop the spread of COVID-19 in our town. Additionally, should you leave your home, wear a face mask or covering, practice social distancing and — most importantly — stay home if you feel sick or are experiencing any symptoms whatsoever.”
The Town of Winthrop remains designated as a “Red” high risk community in the DPH’s weekly report released Thursday, October 22nd. According to the data, the average daily incidence rate for the Town of Winthrop per 100,000 residents is 10.6. Any number over 8 leads to a “Red” designation.
Hurley said those with questions about the COVID-19 situation in town are encouraged to call the COVID-19 information line at 617-539-5848 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or email COVID19info@town.winthrop.ma.us
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