Westport Coronavirus Update: Surgical Masks Donated; Cases At 152

WESTPORT, CT — The number of confirmed cases of the new coronavirus (COVID-19) in Westport reached 152 on Wednesday, according to state health officials. Additionally, the town received a donation of surgical masks for first responders from the Connecticut Chapter of the NFL Players Alumni, First Selectman Jim Marpe announced.

Statewide, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases eclipsed 8,700 as of Wednesday evening, and 335 deaths have been reported.

Marpe also urged residents to continue physical distancing efforts, because there have been reports of large gatherings at private homes in town.

"The Police Department continues to receive reports of large gatherings at private residences," Marpe said in a statement. "Do not put Police Department personnel in the uncomfortable, unsafe position when they need to investigate these reports. We are in this together, but all of us must do our part in obeying the recommendations and maintaining a high level of vigilance so that we can flatten the curve."

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The Westport Weston Health District's drive-thru testing effort will host its next session on April 14, and separately, officials are urging residents not to flush anything besides toilet paper to avoid clogs. Read the district's latest statement by clicking here.

Below is Marpe's Wednesday announcement:

The Connecticut Chapter of the NFL Players Alumni purchased surgical masks for first responders in Southwestern Connecticut. Westport resident and former NFL player, Skip Lane was among those who presented a case of the surgical masks to First Selectman Jim Marpe and Police Chief Foti Koskinas at the pick-up location at the Darien Town Hall. Both First Selectman Marpe and Chief Koskinas expressed their deepest thanks to the CT NFL Alumni group for providing these surgical masks for Westport’s first responders currently on the frontlines of the battle against COVID-19.

Surgical and homemade masks for personal use are now recommended by the CDC when we need to leave our homes. It is important to note that the use of these masks does NOT eliminate the need for social distancing.

In addition to the previous list of packaged medical equipment, homemade and surgical masks have been added to the list of eligible donations accepted by the Public Works Department. The town will use these masks for its first responder and town staff usage. Please go to westportct.gov/itemdonation and fill out the brief online form to set up an appointment for pickup.

In this time of uncertainty and economic strain, there are some who are struggling with obtaining provisions and adequate food supplies, including seniors and families who receive assistance from our Department of Human Services. The DHS has set up a donation fund to help our families and friends in need. All are encouraged to donate what you are able to the Westport Food Fund. fundly.com/westport-food-fund.

The Police Department continues to receive reports of large gatherings at private residences. Do not put Police Department personnel in the uncomfortable, unsafe position when they need to investigate these reports. We are in this together, but all of us must do our part in obeying the recommendations and maintaining a high level of vigilance so that we can flatten the curve. This includes social distancing at all times in public areas and private homes and yards. Westport is known for its creative, artistic roots. Let’s put this spirit to use and show how we can connect and remain distanced from our neighbors and friends in innovative, ingenious ways.

Finally, as a sign of solidarity and community spirit, please take a few moments between 5:00 PM and 5:02 PM this evening, and every Wednesday evening, to ring bells, clap or otherwise “make some noise” to show our gratitude for our first responders, health care workers and essential personnel who are working diligently and, in many cases making personal sacrifices, to benefit our entire community. They truly deserve our encouragement and our gratitude. On behalf of the Town of Westport, as First Selectman, I extend high praise and thanks to them for the outstanding job that they are doing.

To those celebrating, I wish the blessings of Health and Peace to you and your families this Passover season.

Please continue to self-isolate, quarantine if necessary, socially distance yourself and, as much as possible, stay at home. Remember, you’re not stuck at home, you’re safe at home.

If you have not done so already, follow or check updates:

• Online: www.westportct.gov/COVID19

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· Social Media: #Westportctcovid19info