New Canaan Coronavirus Update: 14th Death Reported

NEW CANAAN, CT — A 14th New Canaan resident has passed away as a result of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) as of Monday, and the number of confirmed cases of the virus in town climbed to 123, according to Emergency Management Director Mike Handler.

In Fairfield County, the number of deaths climbed to 262, and the number of cases eclipsed the 6,000 mark with 6,004, according to state health officials.

Statewide, 602 people have died of complications from the virus as of Monday, and there are 13,381 confirmed coronavirus cases in Connecticut. Additionally, more than 1,700 people are hospitalized for COVID-19, and more than 44,000 patients have been tested in the state.

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This is from Handler's Monday announcement:

New Canaan’s fourth drive-thru test site is scheduled for 1 pm on Thursday, April 16th. If you are experiencing symptoms and wish to get tested in New Canaan, please visit www.coronatestct.com, complete the online application and secure a reservation.

I think it is important to talk for a moment about this relatively new concept of "essential businesses.” It should be understood that we all take a certain amount of risk when conducting essential business. When I say “we,” I am referring to both the public shopper and the essential employee. We do everything possible to mitigate the risk of viral spread, include regular staff wellness checks, continual cleaning of high-touch points, personal protective equipment, and frequent handwashing. Most importantly, any essential worker that either develops symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19 is quarantined for a minimum of 14 days and must test negative prior to returning to work. Despite these mitigation efforts, we should not and cannot be surprised that essential workers will test positive for COVID-19. This includes all essential workers—police officers, firefighters, EMTs, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, grocery store clerks, transportation operators, food delivery workers, and others.

Some unfortunately have tested positive and others will continue to be exposed. The reason why we accept these risks is because the services being provided are deemed “necessary.” It also serves to broaden the designation of “hero.” Every one of these workers is putting themselves in harm’s way to provide a vital service to our community.