Over 70 Coronavirus Deaths, More Than 400 Cases In Fairfield

FAIRFIELD, CT — More than 70 Fairfield residents have died after contracting the new coronavirus and there have been well over 400 confirmed cases in town, according to the first selectwoman.

As of Monday, there were 72 virus-associated fatalities in Fairfield and 423 residents had tested positive, First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick said in an email to residents, adding that 168 Fairfielders had reported a full recovery from the illness, also called COVID-19.

Statewide, there were 29,973 confirmed cases, 2,556 deaths and 1,464 hospitalizations, Kupchick said Monday. The state also saw its 12th consecutive day of declining new coronavirus hospitalizations along with slightly fewer daily reported deaths. Gov. Ned Lamont said Monday that Fairfield, Hartford and New Haven counties are on the downward trend of coronavirus infections.

"We are cautiously optimistic and continue to watch closely as we move forward," Kupchick said in the email.

Also Monday, Kupchick updated residents on the events of Fairfield’s first weekend after the town partially opened its beaches, marinas and select other recreation areas for the first time since mid March, with limited parking. For several weeks in April while the open spaces were closed, residents who trespassed in the areas risked a $92 fine.

Despite reports of some residents defying virus prevention protocol by failing to wear face masks or allow for proper social distancing, most people at the recreation spaces acted responsibly, Kupchick said, adding that those who did not comply with best practices received a reminder from police.

“Medical professionals have advised that we can carry COVID with no symptoms, which means that when you are out in public, you should assume you have it, and assume everyone else has it,” Kupchick said in the email.

Additionally, some parking infractions were issued, a practice that will continue, she said.

Fairfield officials are working to open additional town spaces, according to Kupchick, and a local task force is preparing for the opening of certain non-essential businesses, which have been closed for over a month and are designated to resume operations May 20.

For more information about the new coronavirus in Fairfield, visit www.fairfieldct.org/covid19data.