Maldden alld a Vol. 29, No. 13 den AADD -FREEM ayor Gary Christenson led another online community forum that was streamed live on Facebook this week to provide updates on novel coronavirus (COVID-19) information and to answer questions from residents. Together with Police Chief Kevin Molis and Director of Human Services and Community Outreach Karen Colón Hayes, Christenson explained steps the city has taken to contain the spread of the virus as well as strategies for residents to protect themselves. But in addition to off ering the latest news, the forum also reflected the mood of the city and residents, particularly seniors, who expressed fears about the spread of the virus and anxiety about what’s ahead. “As of [Monday] the city of Malden has nine confi rmed cases, and we believe those cases are most likely from interpersonal contact,” Christenson told viewers. “The Health Department has Coronovirus Information – see page 9 CTE CAT AT www.advocatenews.net COVID-19 forum reminds residents safety depends on them By Barbara Taormina Published Every Friday 617-387-2200 been in touch with those aff ected residents and they are cooperating and following all quarantine protocols and precautionary measures,” said Christenson, adding that the number of cases is expected to increase with more testing. There are also 57 presumed cases in the city with an additional 21 people who are self-isolating due to contact with those individuals. Several viewers called in or emailed questions about the confi rmed cases and quarantines. Christenson assured viewers the Health Department is on top of the situation – continually checking with residents who are quarantined. He said the city cannot provide information pinpointing the location of confi rmed and presumed cases. Federal laws protect patient privacy and confi dentiality. Christenson said the one exception to the law allows health departments to share information on COVID-19 cases with fi rst responders, the police, fi refi ghters and emergency medical teams, who may need to respond to calls at those locations. “First responders are, by the nature of their job, required to go to places where others don’t have to go, but we still have to do everything we can FORUM | SEE PAGE 15 Exelon Generation donates $7,500 to Bread of Life M E Friday, March 27, 2020 Better Safe Than Sorry WEB OF CAUTION: In wake of the Coronavirus, caution tape is strewn along the gate and fence at Madison Street Park to remind visitors that the park is closed since the city has closed all city parks and playgrounds. See page 7 for story and photo highlights. (Advocate photo) Update on Confirmed Malden Cases alden Public Health Director Chris Webb has updated the latest numbers with respect to known cases of COVID-19. As of Thursday noon, March 26th, the City of Malden has twenty-one (21) tested and confi rmed cases and these individuals are in isolation. There are also 76 residents quarantined because of contact with those who have tested positive. Malden’s Health Department has been in contact with the residents and all quarantine protocols and precautionary measures are being followed. To date, 62 residents have completed the quarantine or isolation period. Currently, Health Department nurses are monitoring 97 cases, and all are taken the necessary precautionary measures. Tested and Confi rmed Cases (in isolation) 21 Age Range of Confi rmed Cases Number Hospitalized Quarantined Cases (contact with someone testing positive) Board Health Monitoring Completed Quarantine or Isolation Period 30 to 82 years 3 76 97 62 It is anticipated that these numbers will increase as the State increases the amount of testing taking place. The City receives updates sporadically bit now more often. Please continue to avoid gatherings, practice social distancing, wash hands and sanitize surfaces frequently. If you feel sick, consult a medical professional immediately. Bread of Life Pantry Volunteer Coordinator Teri Barchard and volunteer Bill Howard. The Bread of Life recently received at $7,500 donation from Exelon Generation to bolster its eff orts to feed the less fortunate during the COVID-19 pandemic. See story on page 6. (Courtesy Photo)
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