Barnstable Coronavirus: Officials Issue Mask Advisory

BARNSTABLE, MA — Town officials have issued an advisory that urges residents to wear masks or cloth face coverings during the new coronavirus crisis.

Board of Health Chair Donald Guadagnoli said residents should still maintain 6 feet of distance from others in public, but the masks should be worn whenever that distance isn't possible. He also said residents should continue exercising basic precautions, including:

• Frequent hand-washing, for 20 seconds with soap.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Cough hygiene – into a tissue when possible (throw it away immediately) or into your arm.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, or nose with unwashed hands.
• Avoid contact with those who are ill.
• Stay home yourself from work when ill.

There are 161 people who have tested positive for the new coronavirus in the town of Barnstable as of Tuesday, according to the latest numbers from local health officials.

Board of Health Director Thomas McKean said nurses with the Public Health Division have checked in with infected residents to ensure they remain in isolation. They have also reached out to those who have been in contact with these residents to make sure they self-quarantine.