Coronavirus East Haven: First Fatality Announced

EAST HAVEN, CT — The first coronavirus fatality in East Haven was an 80-year-old woman.

Mayor Joe Carfora said the community is "deeply saddened" by the death of the woman, who lived in her East Haven home.

"This terrible virus has taken a life in our community, and that loss of life gives each of us pause and fills us with sorrow," Carfora said. "Our prayers go out to the family."

The woman died six days after the first positive case in the town was announced.

East Shore District Health Department director of health Michael Pascucilla said his "thoughts and prayers are with the family of the individual in our district who died from complications due to the coronavirus."

Carfora said the town's "main objective" is to continue to keep residents safe and slow the spread of the virus and assured residents that his leadership staff and all town departments are working with the local public health department, along with state and federal officials.

“The single best way to slow the spread is to practice social distancing, and the Town of East Haven is recommending that all individuals both adults and children, stay home and not interact with individuals outside of the household,” Pascucilla said.

Social distancing is crucial in helping to reduce the spread of the virus and limit the number of people who are infected.

“We must remain diligent in exercising the prudent recommendations to slow the spread of the virus," Carfora said. "These measures will help protect our community against a widespread outbreak.”

East Haven has closed all public buildings and made strong recommendations against the use of, and congregation, at its outdoor park and recreation facilities. Schools also remained closed. In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the town says residents must maintain social distancing of at least six feet, avoid crowds, wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds, stay home if you’re sick.

For the most current updates and recommendations, visit ct.gov/coronavirus. For general questions, call 2-1-1.

Symptoms of the virus include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Other symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. For more information, resources, hotlines, testing, and how you can support local businesses while practicing social distancing, please visit: http://www.esdhd.org/coronavirus.