Norwalk Coronavirus Update: Deaths Reach 20; Cases Reach 595

NORWALK, CT — The city reported one death over the weekend due to the new coronavirus (COVID-19), bringing the total to 20 in Norwalk, according to Mayor Harry Rilling. The number of confirmed cases of the virus climbed to 595 as of Monday, still the second highest total in the state behind Stamford's 888, state health officials said.

In Fairfield County, the number of confirmed cases grew to 3,719 as of Monday. The number of deaths in the county due to the virus now stands at 101. Statewide, the number of coronavirus-related deaths was 206 as of Monday; the number of confirmed cases in Connecticut was 6,906.

"It is truly sad that another resident has died as a result of this terrible virus," Rilling said on Sunday. "I offer heartfelt condolences to their family and loved ones during this very difficult time."

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All 20 of the reported deaths in Norwalk were of individuals above the age of 50, with nine of those patients being between 70 and 79.

Among the city's confirmed cases, however, about 170 of the 595 are of people under the age of 40, with nine cases from children under the age of 10, according to officials.

"We know that spikes in cases, or relatively low numbers of new cases, does not tell the entire story, and is based on when data is submitted," Rilling said. "Members of the public should continue adhering to physical distancing guidelines to help slow the spread of coronavirus. I know I sound like a broken record,but from what I’ve seen at some of our stores and other areas around Norwalk, there are some who are simply not taking this matter seriously enough. We will only be able to defeat this virus if we all make some tough sacrifices now."

This is part of Mayor Rilling's Monday announcement:

• City officials remind residents that what is required for COVID-19 testing at a private practice or health center is different than at drive-thru collection sites. A doctor’s note is not required at private medical offices that are running tests because a person will be seen by a doctor or physician, whereas collection sites require prior authorization. The state has answers to more Frequently Asked Questions here.
• Mayor Rilling sent a CodeRED Emergency Alert message Sunday evening in English and Spanish. This service is opt-in, meaning members of the public have to sign up if they wish to receive messages. City officials encourage everyone to sign up at norwalkct.org/codered. To hear the Mayor’s latest CodeRED message, click here.
• City officials continue to observe members of the public not following new rules for public spaces. Over the weekend, two different individuals launched their boats from the boat ramp at Veteran’s Park. These individuals deliberately moved construction barrels and caution tape that blocked the entrance to access the parking lot. Both were charged with misdemeanor trespassing and had their vehicles towed.
• The City of Norwalk will be using the Zoom platform for its upcoming meetings. Information and instructions, including for public participation, can be found under the “agendas / minutes / legal notices” button on the homepage.

Members of the public are encouraged to sign-up for the City's CodeRED Emergency Alert Notification System at norwalkct.org/codered.

Updates on City services, hours, and community resources will be routinely published at norwalkct.org/citynews. The latest health updates can be found at norwalkct.org/coronavirus.