Fairfield Coronavirus Update: Fifth Resident Dies

FAIRFIELD, CT — A fifth Fairfield residents has died after contracting the new coronavirus and there are now 94 confirmed cases of the virus in town, the first selectwoman reported Tuesday in an email to residents.

The total number of confirmed cases in Fairfield has risen by 25 cases in 48 hours, First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said. The fifth resident to die in association with the virus was a 72-year-old man. Every patient in town who has died after getting the virus has been over the age of 60.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all the families who are dealing with loss during this challenging time,” Kupchick said in the email.

The new coronavirus outbreak is expected to peak in mid April in Fairfield and place “overwhelming demands” on the healthcare system, according to the email.

As of Tuesday, there were 7,781 confirmed cases of the virus across Connecticut, 4,136 of which were in Fairfield County and 277 of which were fatal, according to state data.

Kupchick in the email urged residents to follow the new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines and wear cloth mouth coverings in public. The town has instituted a face mask policy for its employees and communicated with local grocery stores about prioritizing the use of masks and gloves among workers.

Area retailers are trying to find alternate sources to meet the high demand for certain items amid the outbreak, Kupchick said. Noting that the upcoming holidays will further strain grocers, Kupchick asked residents not to over buy and to have only one household member do the shopping in order to reduce exposure.

Kupchick also announced in the email that the Fairfield COVID-19 Relief Fund is active and seeking donations. Starting Wednesday, applications will be open to eligible residents in need of financial relief as a result of the virus. To donate, visit www.fairfieldct.org/content/10726/11018/92497/92881.aspx.