Stonington Coronavirus Community Update: Oct. 9

From the Town of Stonington:

October 9, 2020

Dear Stonington Residents,

We are asking all residents and visitors to please continue to remain diligent in taking all COVID-19 precautions possible. In Southeastern CT we are experiencing higher numbers than we did in April and all need to do our part to ensure that does not continue. While our numbers in Stonington remain relatively low, new cases have risen significantly across our region. Today we shared a short video featuring a public health nurse practitioner from LLHD and our Director of Human Services to share information regarding steps we can be taking to help mitigate the community spread in our region and various resources we have in place to help with mental health during this challenging time. You can view the video at the bottom of this post, as well as on our social media channels.

Although there is no singular reason for this increase, LLHD contact tracers have reported that they have observed many instances of family and social gathering connections. We know there is a need for healthy, social interactions, but please wear masks and take all necessary precautions to help stop the spread. Please also keep in mind that limiting the people you interact with can help with critical contact tracing efforts.

Testing: Yale New Haven Health will be offering an additional day, with extended hours, for COVID-19 testing: Wednesday, October 14 from 8:30am to 4:00pm. They will be at the same location, behind Stonington Human Services. Even if you are not experiencing symptoms, you could still have and pass on COVID-19 to others. There is no fee and appointments are not required, but you can make one and skip the line by visiting here. If you have questions, visit YNHHS.org or call 833-ASK-YNHH.

COVID-19 Cases: As of October 8, 2020, the total of laboratory-confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases reported by the State among Connecticut residents is 59,748 (up from 58,297 on October 2).

• 128 patients (up from 110 on Oct 2) are currently hospitalized with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19. There have been 4,527 COVID-19-associated deaths.
• In New London county, we have 27 people currently hospitalized (up from 17 on Oct 2) and 2,515 confirmed cases(up from 2,206 on Oct 2).
• Looking at data from our local health district, LLHD, there has been a significant increase across the 10 municipalities they cover (see chart attached). Stonington had 8 new cases this week, moving to a total of 56 (which represents 16 new cases over two weeks).

For several graphs and tables containing more data, including a list of cases in every municipality, visit ct.gov/coronavirus and click the link that is labeled, “COVID-19 Data Tracker.” For RI information, including town-by-town numbers, please see here.

Travel Advisory: For anyone traveling into Connecticut from a state that has a new daily positive test rate higher than 10 per 100,000 residents or a state with a 10% or higher positivity rate over a 7-day rolling average, please take note that you are asked to self-quarantine for a 14-day period from the time of last contact within the identified state. As of October 6, 2020 there are 35 locations that meet the criteria. You can read more here. Please know it is strongly advised not to travel to/from one of these states if at all possible. If you are traveling you are required to fill out a travel health form, which can be found here.

Ongoing Health and Safety: Please note, as the new Executive Orders come out increasing social gathering size both indoors and outdoors, please keep in mind that contract tracing remains a key way our local health officials are able to help curb the spread of this virus. Consider watching this video from LLHD to learn more. As we work to reopen our local economy, schools, and non-profits, it remains imperative that we all please use a face cover whenever you are unable to maintain the recommended six feet of distance. We know that a significant portion of individuals lack symptoms, but can transmit the virus to others. Please continue to take steps to protect yourself and those around you, these include: wash your hands often and thoroughly; avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth; disinfect surfaces routinely; cough into your elbow. Remember this is not just for your safety, but the most vulnerable in our community. Flu Shot Recommendation: This week the Connecticut Department of Public Health announced the state of influenza vaccination clinics in Connecticut for the coming flu season and is encouraging people in the state to get vaccinated for the flu as soon as possible.

Mental Health and Community Support: In addition to the physical health impacts, please know there are also resources for mental health support during this challenging time. Your mental health matters. Please see here for a list of state resources, or call us at human service 860-535-5015. We also know that social isolation can amplify issues at home. If you are concerned about a relationship and would like someone to talk to, call CT Safe Connect – (888) 774-2900. Safe Futures is also available 24/7 via their confidential crisis line (860) 701-6001. Please know, you are not alone. Moreover, if you would like assistance with grocery deliveries, pet supplies, or might benefit from a friendly check-in (they even do book drop offs), please visit www.stoningtonhelps.com or call us at Town Hall or Human Services. If you have any other needs, or know of others in need of assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. We have many different options to assist residents in need. The CDC also recommends positive ways to cope with stress, such as taking breaks from watching the news or reading about the pandemic; taking care of your body by being physically active; eating healthy; getting plenty of sleep; stretching or practicing meditation; staying engaged in activities you enjoy and staying connected to others even though we are physically distancing from each other. Spending time in nature, on trails, and other open spaces is another effective way to cope. Join Hike Stonington to find more local spots and be part of a community initiative. Just remember to be at least six feet apart at all times.

For the most up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, including an FAQ and other guidance and resources, residents are encouraged to visit ct.gov/coronavirus. Individuals who have general questions that are not answered on the website can also call 2-1-1 for assistance. The hotline is available 24 hours a day. For general questions regarding COVID-19, please contact the Yale New Haven Hotline at 1-203-688-1700. If you are not feeling well, contact your physician by phone for instructions. In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.

While this is an extremely difficult time; it is also a time for us to show just how kind and strong we are, together as a community. Remember, even small actions, can make a big difference. If you are well and able, please think of friends, family and neighbors who might benefit from your help at this time, as well as our local non-profits and business.

During this time, we want to do everything we can to stay connected. Please check our new First Selectman's blog for regular updates on specific topics, such as state and local reopening information, local community initiatives, mental health and wellness and business resources. Members of the community are also encouraged to sign up for email updates from the Town. You can do this by sending your name, along with preferred email to UpdateSignup@stonington-ct.gov.

If you have ideas on further ways the community can connect or provide additional resources in this time of need, wish to ask questions, share ideas or concerns please call Town Hall.

We will get through this together.

Thank you and stay safe,

Danielle Chesebrough, Stonington First Selectman

Department Phone Numbers

Administrative Services 860-535-5000

Assessment Department 860-535-5098

Building Official 860-535-5075

Finance Department 860-535-5070

First Selectman 860-535-5050

Human Services Department 860-535-5015

Planning & Land Use 860-535-5095

Public Works 860-535-5055

Solid Waste 860-535-5099

Sanitarian (Ledge Light Health) 860-535-5010

Tax Collector 860-535-5080

Town Clerk 860-535-5060

Voter Registration 860-535-5047 or 5054

WPCA 860-535-5065

Police 860-599-4411

Police Emergency 911

Town of Stonington: COVID-19 Update and Mental Health Discussion

This press release was produced by the Town of Stonington. The views expressed here are the author’s own.