Coronavirus West Haven: City Resident Tests Positive

WEST HAVEN, CT — A West Haven resident has tested positive for the new coronavirus, Health Director Maureen B. Lillis confirmed on Wednesday afternoon, March 18.

“The state Department of Public Health has notified the city that a West Haven resident has tested positive for COVID-19 and is recovering,” Lillis said in a news release.

No additional information is available about the infected resident, said Lillis, citing the federal law that restricts the release of medical information.

“At this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with our fellow resident for a full and speedy recovery,” Mayor Nancy R. Rossi said. “As we anticipate more positive cases, all residents are urged to continue practicing good hygiene and social distancing to slow the spread of the coronavirus.”

Rossi added a message of hope, saying, “We will overcome this unprecedented public health challenge, not as isolated individuals but as members of a true community, with all of us working together.”

Lillis said the Health Department is closely monitoring the outbreak of respiratory illness caused by COVID-19, which stands for coronavirus disease 2019. The department is in close communication with the DPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure the city’s health and safety. (To sign up for West Haven breaking news alerts and more, click here.)

West Haven has been preparing for the coronavirus by implementing an Emergency Order and other safeguards to protect residents against the disease. For the latest news, announcements and guidelines from the city, residents and business owners are strongly urged to visit West Haven’s official coronavirus page at Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Lillis said the best way to prevent infection is to avoid being exposed to the coronavirus, adding that the Health Department urges all residents to follow the precautions below to prevent the virus:

— Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable.

— Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

— Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

— Stay home when you are sick.

— Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue.

— Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

— If you suspect you have been exposed to the COVID-19 virus, contact your health provider.