Coronavirus Stratford: Town Prepares For Outbreak

Via the Town of Stratford:

STRATFORD, CT — The Town of Stratford’s departments of health, social services and public safety are actively monitoring the novel coronavirus outbreak, and are in regular contact with state and federal agencies. Local officials are remaining up-to-date on guidance from the federal Centers for Disease Control, and Mayor Laura R. Hoydick said Monday that the Town of Stratford is well underway in preparing for and responding to coronavirus, if and when the virus makes its way to Stratford.

“I have been meeting with all town departments and our public schools administration to review and establish protocols to prevent and respond to the coronavirus,” Hoydick said. “Our Department of Public Health and Department of Public Safety have been working in concert with the state Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control. We have activated our Emergency Preparedness plans and are prepared in the event that a public health emergency is declared. Our protocols are aimed at protecting the general public and our first responders.”

The Stratford Health Department has reached out to myriad community partners, including early childhood education providers, YMCA, Sterling House and more to remind them to review their preparedness plans, to institute stepped-up cleaning protocols, and to stay abreast of this rapidly changing situation. In addition, the health department has been actively messaging on various social media platforms on where to go for more up-to-the-minute information and protecting yourself and your loved ones during an already active flu season.

To date, no cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Stratford. Sunday the first confirmed case in the state of Connecticut was announced. The patient, who is a Wilton resident, is being treated in Danbury Hospital. Monday a second Connecticut case was confirmed.

State and federal officials have noted that the best ways to prevent spread of the coronavirus include:

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand-sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
• Remaining at home if you have a fever, respiratory symptoms or believe you are sick.
• Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects such as tables, doorknobs, light switches, handles, desks, toilets, sinks, cellphones, etc.

The state epidemiologist, Dr. Matthew Carter, has said that the risk from the virus remains low in the state, and that preventative measures such as washing hands and social distancing are adequate. The mayor also participated in a conference call Monday evening with Gov. Ned Lamont for all municipal CEOs and emergency directors statewide on preparation and response to coronavirus.