Norwalk Coronavirus: Maritime Aquarium Closes Through March 29

From the Maritime Aquarium At Norwalk: NORWALK, CT — The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk will close to the public from March 13-29 in a preventative action to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

“There has been no known exposure to the virus among Aquarium employees, volunteers or
visitors,” said Aquarium President Jason Patlis. “Still, the Aquarium is taking this step because
the safety and well-being of our guests, staff and animals are our first priorities.”

“This is an unprecedented response to an unprecedented crisis,” Patlis added. “But it is also the
right thing to do. As we learn more each day, and we are witnessing the rapid and relentless
spread of COVID-19, it is incumbent upon us that we take all actions necessary to minimize the
spread of the virus. Especially with the increasing number of cases here in Fairfield and
Westchester counties – where most of our guests and members live – we should lead by example
in taking all precautions we can.

“As a leader in this community we can set the example by doing the right thing, especially when
public officials need us to practice unselfish community distancing to help stop the spread of the
virus. As a science-based organization, we value ‘the precautionary principle’ as a foundation for
sound conservation decisions; that principle is even more applicable here, when it comes to
public health.”

The closure applies to visits, both to the Aquarium and through Traveling Teacher programs to
schools, as well as “Seal-Spotting & Birding Cruises” scheduled for March 14, 15, 28 and 29
aboard R/V Spirit of the Sound.

Patlis assured that the Aquarium’s Animal Husbandry staff will continue to provide excellent
care to the seals, sharks, sea turtles and 300+ other species during the public closure.

“As the nation embarks on new ways of engagement, through distance learning and distance social interactions, I also see this as an opportunity to be innovative and creative in introducing our guests and students to the Aquarium,” Patlis said. “If they cannot come to the Aquarium, we can bring the Aquarium to our audiences.”

Patlis said Aquarium staff is working to create special video connections to be offered online and
through social media focusing on animals, animal care and environmental education.

“We’re going to find new online ways to engage and inspire during this time, and – when the day
comes to welcome everyone back – The Maritime Aquarium will be the same dynamic,
inspiring, fun destination that everyone knows, loves and respects,” he said.

The Maritime Aquarium already was taking precautionary measures based on recommendations
by the Center for Disease Control. Those included expanding the efforts of cleaning staff
throughout the day in disinfecting hard surfaces (in addition to their thorough work at night), and
adding additional hand sanitizers for guests throughout the facility.

For more information about the exhibits, programs and IMAX movies later this spring, go to
www.maritimeaquarium.org.

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