By Beth David, Editor
Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker is urging people to stay home for Thanksgiving and avoid the usual day-long feasts with extended family that are a hallmark of the holiday. Data show that the recent surge in COVID-19 cases is being driven by small gatherings. The cooler weather is keeping people indoors, which is a higher risk for transmission of the disease. For guidelines on Thanksgiving, visit https://www.mass.gov/ news/thanksgiving-during-covid-19
Fairhaven & Acushnet
The Fairhaven Health Department updates its web page (https://www. fairhaven-ma.gov/board-health) on the town’s website every Friday after receiving the numbers from the state. As of 11/18, Fairhaven had 493 total cases, with 101 active cases being followed by the Public Health Nurse. The town has 13,987 tests recorded with the state, with 125 positive tests in the last 14 days; and a positivity rate of 5.69%.
As of 11/18, Acushnet had 256 total cases, with 14 reported in the last 14 days, and a positivity rate of 5.09%. The town has a total of 6786 tests recorded with the state, with 50 positive tests in the last 14 days.
Visit https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-updates-and-information and scroll down to “community-level data” for information on individual communities.
Employee Positive Case
On Wednesday, 11/18, the Town of Fairhaven was notified that an employee of the Recreation Center tested positive for COVID-19.
The case appears to be isolated, however, the building was closed for the day to be cleaned and disinfected.
Please continue to practice social distancing, mask wearing and handwashing/sanitization to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Contact the Health Department at boh@fairhaven-ma.gov or 508-979-4023 ext. 125 with questions.
Testing Available
Acushnet, Fairhaven, and New Bedford all hold regular testing clinics for residents. See page 5 for Fairhaven. Contact the fire department for Acushnet, (508)-998-0250. Free daily testing for all Mass. residents is available at the Whale’s Tooth Parking Lot, 532 Acushnet Ave., New Bedford, every day (no appointment necessary), 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; call 401-654-4679 with questions; for other sites in NB, visit https://www.newbedford-ma.gov/health-department/covid-19-resources-2/
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