Published in the March 23, 2020 edition.
WAKEFIELD — The Town of Wakefield Health Department was notified on Friday, March 20, that a Wakefield resident has tested positive for COVID-19, the illness associated with the novel coronavirus. This is the first known positive case in Wakefield.
Our Health Department staff has been in communication with the individual and adhering to Massachusetts Department of Health procedures by following up with the individual’s contacts. It has been determined that the individual likely contracted the virus from a relative who is not a Wakefield resident.
The Wakefield resident and resident’s family are all following proper protocols and have been self-isolating for the last eight days. The town cannot release any additional information about the individual.
“This is a highly contagious virus, and someone could have it but be asymptomatic,” notes Wakefield Health Director Ruth Clay. “Personal interaction and staying in contact with our friends and relatives is important. But we should be keeping our distance as much as possible.
“The best prevention is to follow the Center for Disease Control’s guidance: wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds; maintain six feet of distance between you and another person; avoid touching your eyes and face; clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces; cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow; and stay at home when you feel sick.”
Please visit wakefield.ma.us/covid-updates for more information regarding CDC recommendations, community and business resources, municipal operations, and more. If you have any questions or concerns about COVID-19, feel free to contact our Health Department at 781-246-6375 or boardofhealth@wakefield.ma.us.
