Norwalk's Coronavirus Deaths Reach 77, Mayor Rilling Says

NORWALK, CT — Five Norwalk residents were reported to have died of complications of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) on Thursday, bringing the city's total to 77, according to Mayor Harry Rilling. Additionally, another 59 confirmed cases were reported, bringing that total to 1,603.

Statewide, there are 27,700 total confirmed coronavirus cases, 2,257 deaths and 1,650 hospitalizations, and for the eighth straight day the number of hospitalizations declined. State officials are hoping for at least two weeks of declining hospitalizations before reopening Connecticut on May 20.

"It is tragic to report that we have lost five more residents to this terrible virus. These people have been taken from their families and friends too soon," Rilling said. "I offer my heartfelt condolences to their loved ones and will keep them in my prayers. I also want to reassure the public that our first responders take all the necessary precautions and proactive measures to limit the exposure and spread of COVID-19. Please, do not be fearful of calling 9-1-1 when there is an emergency. Help will arrive quickly and safely, and in an emergency, do not wait or hesitate to call."

This is from Rilling's Thursday announcement:

• The State of Connecticut partnered with the developers of the How We Feel app to anonymously provide scientists with critical health information needed to understand the spread of COVID-19. The app is free to download in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store and does not require logging in or sharing personal details, such as name or email address. Data can also be entered online at howwefeel.app.
• The boat launch at Veteran’s Park will be open this Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. for Norwalk residents only who rent marina slips and wish to put their boat in the water. Appointments must be made by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 1. Please email vetsmarina@norwalkct.org for more information and to make an appointment.
• Today, the Connecticut Department of Labor began accepting claim applications for the self-employed, many who are eligible to collect unemployment insurance benefits under the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program. More information can be found here.
• Norwalk Public Schools will have a day off from distance learning for teachers and students tomorrow, May 1. Meal services for families with children under 18 years of age will still be available at the 11 distribution sites in Norwalk from 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
• City officials and health professionals remind the public to call 9-1-1 if there is an emergency. First responders are well-trained and prepared to respond to calls, and residents should not fear coming in contact with COVID-19 by calling 9-1-1.

Rilling added, "Things are trending in the right direction and that is due to the collective efforts across our community. I know it hasn’t been easy, but we are seeing how physical distancing and these joint efforts can slow the spread of this virus. I am hopeful we are past the peak and I am appreciative of the public’s continued patience and understanding as we navigate those challenging times as a community."

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.