June 11 Coronavirus Update
One of the frequently asked questions as we move toward reopening is how the ban on large gatherings applies in different scenarios under this new phase.
Generally speaking, the same principles of COVID-19 prevention still apply. We should all be trying to limit our non-essential travel, keep our gatherings small, remain 6 feet apart whenever possible, and cover our faces when we can’t. This week, the Governor released clarifying guidance on public gatherings to resolve any more nuanced situations.
For the most part, the ban on gatherings of more than 10 people is still in effect. However, gatherings in unenclosed, outdoor spaces like parks, parking lots, athletic fields, and large backyards are not limited to 10 people, so long as all participants are able to remain 6 feet apart. Indoor enclosed spaces are still subject to the 10 person limit, with the exception of essential businesses and Phase I/Phase II industries like grocery stores, retail space, and houses of worship, the latter of which has updated Phase II safety standards.
There are a number of legally-required exceptions to this rule, including schools, legislative bodies, and public gatherings explicitly for the purpose of political expression. There are specific safety standards for most of these exceptions available at mass.gov/reopening.
New Updates
Coronavirus Testing and Response
- Today, the state has 104,667 total reported positive cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth, with 519 new cases and 38 reported deaths as of today at 4pm.
- The average new cases over the last 7 days is 374, and the average number of deaths is 42.
- The 7-day weighted average positive test rate in Massachusetts is 3.8%.
- 1,260 individuals are hospitalized with COVID-19 statewide, a decrease of 75 from yesterday.
- The Department of Public Health regularly releases a daily reporting dashboard containing detailed information on hospitalizations, demographic data, and county-by-county breakdowns of cases. To view the DPH dashboard, visit here.
Health Care System
- Hospital Capacity: As of 6/11, 53% of the Commonwealth’s 17,300 permanent and temporary hospital beds are available for new patients if needed. In the MetroWest region, 53% of the region’s 2,800 beds are available for new patients.
- Long-term care: As of 6/11, there are 365 long-term care facilities with at least one case of COVID-19 and 22,561 staff and residents in facilities who have tested positive for COVID-19. 4,705 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in long-term care facilities.
Local Resources
All of the towns in the 8th Middlesex District now have centralized COVID-19 resource pages with resources, updates, and alerts regarding town services.
Holliston | Hopkinton | Southborough | Westborough
The Department of Public Health also releases weekly reports on town-by-town COVID-19 case numbers and rates, which can be found online here.
Resources for Residents Experiencing Job Loss or Loss of Income
COVID-19 is causing broad disruption to the economy which is affecting incomes of many residents and families. There are a number of state resources and supports available to support workers who may find themselves unemployed or otherwise income-constrained during this uncertain time.
Guide for job/income loss resources: https://carolyndykema.com/covid19-state-resources
Department of Unemployment Assistance: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/department-of-unemployment-assistance
Department of Transitional Assistance: https://www.mass.gov/dta-covid-19-resources-and-support
How You Can Help
Holliston Youth and Family Services requests your support of the Community Action Fund, which provides emergency assistance to those affected by COVID-19. Learn more or donate here.
The Westborough Rotary Club has launched a COVID-19 Community Relief Fund to provide assistance to those affected by COVID-19. Learn more or donate here.
The American Red Cross is asking for blood donations, the need for which is significant due to blood drive cancellations. The need is dire due to the cancellation of hundreds of blood drives. People can donate at the Worcester American Red Cross Donor Center, 381 Plantation St. Worcester or call 1-800-RED CROSS. Some local donor sites, including the Natick Senior Center, are available for appointments as well.
Information on our local food pantries can be found below. The most pressing need right now is cash donations to ensure that food drop-off and delivery do not inadvertently contribute to the spread of the virus.
Holliston Pantry Shelf | Project Just Because | Southborough Food Pantry | Westborough Food Pantry
Current Statewide Advisories
Safer at Home: As of May 18, the statewide stay-at-home advisory is now the Safer at Home advisory. In many ways, this advisory remains in the same spirit as previous policies: You should practice social distancing and limit your non-essential interactions as much as possible.
Face Covering: As reopening continues, the statewide face covering advisory remains in effect for public indoor and outdoor spaces in situations where social distancing is not possible. The full advisory and detailed guidance can be found online.
Reopening Guidance: For more information on the state’s phased reopening plan and particular industry-specific guidance, visit mass.gov/reopening. For questions about business reopening timelines, visit this page.
A list of all executive orders in place during the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 state of emergency can be found here.
