Coronavirus Madison: Man, 34, Has Tested Positive

MADISON, CT — First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons announced Friday evening that a Madison resident has tested positive for the new coronavirus.

Lyons said the man, 34, is "doing well and is not hospitalized."

In an alert to residents, her second today, she also addressed Gov. Ned Lamont's executive order on a state-wide quarantine policy he calls 'Stay Safe, Stay Home.'

The directive requires non-essential businesses to close for the next few weeks at least. The order will go into effect Monday morning. He said he'd define essential businesses in the executive order but during a press conference officials said these types of businesses will remain open: food supply chain, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, health care, doctors offices, financial services, childcare services, auto repair and hardware services. The executive order, which will be finalized tonight, will more clearly explain all the essential services.

Officials said liquor stores would remain open and restaurants and bars are allowed to offer takeout and delivery services. No one is allowed to dine-in at a local establishment. Officials said individuals wouldn't be fined for violating the order but non-essential businesses that choose to remain open could be fined.

Lyons said she'll share how the order will affect Madison when she hears from the state.

"I wanted to provide an additional update today on two important events. First, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) has confirmed today the first positive case of COVID-19 among Madison residents. The individual is a 34 year old male who is doing well and not hospitalized. We can expect more of these in the coming days and weeks as transmission of the virus grows throughout Connecticut. Town officials will work with the individual to ensure all appropriate CDC guidance is followed to limit any potential for exposure.

Second, Governor Lamont issued an Executive Order today to ‘Stay home, stay safe’. All non-essential businesses are to close, and residents are asked to stay home. We will post more details on what this order means for our residents on a practical, day-by-basis when details become available from the state.

Our main objective, along with the Governor, is to continue to keep residents safe and slow the spread of the virus. The single best way to slow the spread is to practice social distancing, and the Town is recommending that all individuals, both adults and children, stay home and not interact with individuals outside of their household. Social distancing is crucial in helping to reduce the spread of the virus and limiting the number of people who are infected.

Everyone should take every day preventative actions to help protect themselves and others, these include:

• Staying home if you are sick except to get medical care
• Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
• Washing your hands with soap and water frequently and for at least 20 seconds
• Covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash and wash your hands after
• Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces

Symptoms of the virus include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should contact your primary care physician by telephone immediately. They can guide you through the appropriate next steps.
Our hearts are with this Madison resident inflicted by this virus. Let’s work together to minimize its spread by staying safe, healthy and at home.

Kind Regards,
Peggy Lyons, First Selectwoman