Fairfield In 'Acceleration Phase' Of Coronavirus With 35 Cases

FAIRFIELD, CT — The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Fairfield reached 35 on Monday, according to an email from the first selectwoman.

That’s more than four times the number of cases confirmed in town a week ago. On Saturday, Fairfield officials reported the first death of a town resident from the virus, which is also referred to as COVID-19.

“We are currently in the acceleration phase of the pandemic and expect to see dramatic increases in the number of residents who contract COVID-19,” First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said in the email to residents.

Across Connecticut, there were 2,571 confirmed cases of the virus as of Monday, 36 of which were fatal, according to state data.

The coronavirus has drastically affected day-to-day life in Fairfield. Schools and non-essential businesses have closed their physical locations under state order, and residents have been directed to remain at home and not congregate in groups larger than five people, a topic Kupchick addressed in her email Monday.

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Kupchick said she received many reports over the weekend of high school students gathering at parking lots, fields and beaches outside of town. Fairfield’s public recreation areas have been closed for weeks as a precaution against the virus.

“I am asking all parents have a serious conversation with their children, if you haven’t already, about the importance of staying home and not gathering with members outside of your household,” Kupchick said in the email.

Kupchick also thanked Fairfield’s three country clubs for closing their golf courses, despite a decision at the state level to allow golf courses to re-open.

Additionally, Kupchick announced that her office is working to start a COVID-19 Relief Fund to help residents experiencing financial hardship due to the virus. More information will soon be released and the fund will start accepting donations and applications later in the week.

Fairfield also expects to have state and/or town programs in place by the end of April to assist residents with property tax interest and penalty relief, she said.