Dedham Coronavirus: Four New Cases, Town Total Up To Six

DEDHAM, MA — Dedham announced four new cases of the new coronavirus in town, bringing the total number of cases up to six. Officials said the four new cases have been isolated and are being monitored but no information about the infected people could be released.

Board of Health Chair Leanne Jasset assured residents that the town is bound to see an increase in positive cases as more testing is done.

"With increased testing capabilities and cominunity spread of COVID-19, positive tests are likely to continue. We ask that you remain diligent in practicing social distancing and proper handwashing, both of which are vital steps in slowing the spread of this disease," Jasset said.

Don't miss updates about precautions in your area as they are announced. Sign up for Patch news alerts and newsletters.

The disease, which apparently originated in animals, is now transferring from person to person, although the mechanism is not yet fully understood. Its symptoms include fever, coughing and shortness of breath, and many patients develop pneumonia. There is as yet no vaccine against COVID-19 it and no antiviral treatment.

According to the CDC, the best way of preventing the disease is to avoid close contact with people who are sick, to avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands, to wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, and to use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.

To avoid spreading any respiratory illness, the CDC recommends staying at home when you are sick, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue and throwing the tissue in the trash, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.