Norwalk Coronavirus Update: Lab Error Leads To Jump In Cases

NORWALK, CT — The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) jumped by 394 in Norwalk to 1,358 due to a laboratory reporting error, according to Mayor Harry Rilling. Additionally, two more deaths were reported, bringing the city's total to 54.

"These new numbers do not represent an overnight spike in cases," Rilling said. "Due to the changes in electronic laboratory reporting, the state’s surveillance system is catching up with cases, with some dating back weeks."

The number of deaths in Fairfield County as of Wednesday increased to 584, while the number of confirmed cases in the county climbed to 9,883. (Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters.)

Connecticut had 22,469 confirmed coronavirus cases as of Wednesday, up by more than 2,100, and 1,544 coronavirus-related deaths, an increase of 121.

Hospitalizations statewide rose by 23 to 1,972 as of Wednesday.

"My heart breaks for these families who have lost loved ones during this pandemic," Rilling said. "Sharing the news of two new deaths today is a stark reminder that this virus is here, is serious, and is leaving a devastating impact on members of our community. As we learned today, the numbers and data can change drastically and never truly tell the full story. We are pouring over our data to report the most accurate picture possible. The fact remains we are still seeing people test positive, and still have people who may be unknowingly transmitting the virus. I don’t want anyone to think we’ve beaten this virus yet – everything is not okay. Norwalk, please stay safe, stay healthy and stay home."

This is from Rilling's Wednesday announcement:

• Governor Lamont yesterday announced a new program to provide relief to those with student loans. While the Federal CARES Act provided relief for students with federal loans, it did not address federal loans that are not owned by the U.S. Government, or loans from private lenders. Under a new plan, residents with commercially owned Federal Family Education Loan Programs or privately held student loans who are struggling to make their payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic will be eligible for expanded relief. More details can be found here.
• The food banks in Norwalk are nearly empty due to the increased demand for services. City officials encourage those who are able to consider making a donation to a local food pantry. Some larger groups which are providing meal and pantry services can be found at norwalkct.org/meals. Smaller pantries, such as those found at churches, also need donations.
• Mayor Rilling will be hosting a Zoom Town Hall on Monday, April 27 at 7 p.m. He will be joined in conversation with Norwalk Health Director Deanna D’Amore and Norwalk Chief of Community Services Lamond Daniels. Members of the public can submit questions live to by visiting bit.ly/April27TownHall on Monday. The Town Hall will also be streamed on YouTube and Facebook. No registration is required.

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.