Coronavirus Madison Update: 76 Confirmed Cases, 8 Deaths

MADISON, CT — According to First Selectwoman Peggy Lyons, there are now 79 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Madison and 8 have died from the disease. Lyons said that the spike in cases and deaths is "associated with our skilled-nursing facilities, who care for members of our most vulnerable population."

Lyons noted that while nursing homes are under the jurisdiction of the state Department of Public Health, "the town has coordinated with the state to make sure the facilities are actively following appropriate safety protocols."

She said local officials will continue to provide guidance to limit the spread within the facility, and monitor the situation closely.

Lyons also addressed what summer may look like for families: will there be camp?

"In response to the many questions and concerns that we are receiving about youth camps, we are working to provide more information. Youth camp organizations should continue to review the memos issued by the Connecticut Office of Early Childhood that provide important guidance for youth camps including waivers of licensing requirements during the declared state of emergency, additional requirements imposed through Executive Orders that must be met, and resources to support programs during and following the emergency."

Lyons also reminded small business owners in Madison that Connstep, Inc. and CBIA have teamed up to distribute donated masks to essential businesses. You can request up to 2 masks per employee. For more information and to make a request, please visit https://www.ctcovidresponse.org/ by this Friday, May 1st. Pre-requested masks will be distributed in Madison next week at a location to be announced.

"While we have endured almost seven weeks of restrictions and social distancing directives, we still need to maintain the course a while longer. Rushing back to normalcy will only jeopardize the significant progress that has been made so far,"Lyons cautioned.

"Although hospitalizations and new cases of the virus have started to decline, this does not mean we are out of the woods. We still must practice social distancing, stay home when feeling sick, wash our hands frequently and avoid touching our faces. Our vigilance will make a lasting difference in our community."

Lyons closed by giving a weather update.

"And finally, I want to note that we will be experiencing a long-duration wind and rain event starting tonight and lasting until Friday evening. So please take the appropriate precautions, and stay safe, healthy and at home Madison."