13 New Positive Coronavirus Cases In Guilford: First Selectman

GUILFORD, CT — In an update to the community, First Selectman Matt Hoey said 13 new positive COVID-19 cases were reported this week.

According to the state Department of Public Health, Guilford has 171 confirmed and 22 probable cases. Twelve people have died.

And while Guilford has the "lowest infection rate amongst our surrounding towns," he asked that residents, "Continue to comply with all safety guidelines, social distancing, handwashing, and the wearing of a mask when you cannot comply with the 6-foot separation."

"Our success in fighting this pandemic depends on it," Hoey said.

He also noted that given the increase in COVID-19 cases throughout Connecticut, Gov. Ned Lamont issued Executive Order 9K, effective Friday and with it comes "major changes" including:

• Restaurants will reduce capacity to 50 percent with a maximum of 8 people to a table;
• Restaurants and entertainment venues will be required to close by 9:30 p.m., with the exception of food takeout & delivery services, which will be allowed to continue after 9:30 p.m.;
• Personal services, such as hair salons and barber shops, will remain at 75 percent capacity;
• Event venues will be limited to 25 people indoor, 50 people outdoor;
• Private, residential gatherings will be limited to 10 people for both indoor and outdoor:
• Performing arts venues & movie theaters will have a capacity of 100 people; and
• Religious gatherings will be limited to 50 percent capacity or 100 people maximum.

And, he noted that employers are reminded to "maximize telework to the extent possible."

The state health department also issued an advisory recommending that all Connecticut residents limit non-essential trips outside the home between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. And, those over 60 and with chronic conditions are urged to remain home as much as possible.