Milford Coronavirus Updates: First Death Reported

MILFORD, CT — The Milford community is mourning the death of a resident who died as a result of complications from the new coronavirus, officials announced Tuesday.

The Milford Health Department received confirmation of the death, the first attributed to COVID-19 in the city. The person was a woman in her late 70s.

"On behalf of the City of Milford, I extend our deepest condolences to family and friends who are mourning this loss," Milford Mayor Ben Blake said. "As COVID-19 continues to spread in our community, we must continue to come together and do our part as individuals and as a community to prevent the spread of this virus."

"My thoughts and prayers are with the family of the individual who passed from complications of COVID-19," Milford Health Director Deepa Joseph said. "As we continue to receive reports on a daily basis of positive cases within our community, I encourage each of you to truly practice social distancing as it is the best tool we have in the fight against COVID-19."

The Milford Health Department continues to monitor cases, as well as identify and notify people who have come in contact with those infected. Additionally, the Milford Health Department and the state Department of Public Health is working with long-term care facilities regarding potential and/or confirmed cases in these facilities to ensure appropriate measures are being taken to protect facility residents and staff, officials said.

There are 17 positive COVID-19 cases in Milford so far. To sign up for Milford breaking news alerts and more, click here.

Residents are encouraged to practice social distancing by avoiding gatherings of more than five people. City playground, the skate park, and basketball, pickleball and tennis courts have been closed. Residents are instead encouraged to take advantage of the town's open spaces, parks and walking trails.

"However, please note that being outside does not ease the need for social distancing; as you visit our beautiful open spaces, maintain at least 6 feet of distance between yourself and others," officials said.

"In addition to practicing social distancing, it is imperative that individuals follow these preventive measures:

• Stay home, especially if you are sick.
• Maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet and avoid groups of more than 5 individuals.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60-95% alcohol, if hand washing is not easily accessible.
• Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas, officials added."

COVID-19 symptoms include mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Those experiencing COVID-19 symptoms are advised to:

• Call your medical provider before going to their office or call the Yale New Haven Health System COVID-19 Call Center at 203-688-1700. Your health care provider will make an assessment and order COVID-19 testing as appropriate.
• Separate yourself from other people in your home by at least six feet. Use a separate bathroom and bedroom, if available. Avoid sharing personal household items.
• Monitor your symptoms. If your condition is worsening (i.e. difficulty breathing), seek emergency medical attention. Notify the healthcare provider BEFORE arrival that you have, or are being evaluated for COVID-19.