Message From The Dedham Board Of Health

Press release from the Town of Dedham:

April 8, 2021

DEDHAM — In an effort to continue to update Dedham residents on state and local preparedness efforts and impacts related to COVID-19 (commonly referred to as Coronavirus), the Dedham Board of Health offers the following updates:

April 8, 2021

The Board met this week and heard a presentation from Select Board Member Sarah MacDonald regarding the Annual Spring Clean Up, referred to this year as Just 1 Bag Dedham. In working with Civic Pride, Open Space and Public Works the goal is to pledge to pick up just one bag of trash, anywhere in Town, between April 11th and April 25th. The Board reviewed the necessary protocols for the clean up and voted to support the event.

Health Director Kylee Sullivan provided an update on the Outdoor Dining and the corresponding inspections. She also updated the Board on a number of ongoing housing matters, and outstanding permitting issues.

The Department continues to work closely with the Building and other Town Departments on a number of issues related to permitting, inspections, plan review, etc.

The Board discussed the re-opening of Town Hall, and reported that the decision lies with the Town Manager, however there is no proposed opening date as of this report.

The Board took time to express its appreciation to outgoing Board Member Kathy Reda. Kathy’s dedication, compassion and professional knowledge was an invaluable asset to the Board, most especially this past year during the pandemic. While Kathy will no longer be serving as an elected member of the Board, she will continue to provide her professional guidance and support to the Board and the community.

Mass Vaccination Sites

The Governor’s Office is encouraging those who qualify for the COVID vaccine to visit the state’s website and to register and/or schedule an appointment at one of the Mass Vaccination Sites. Please visit www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine for additional information.

Testing Sites

STOP THE SPREAD COVID TESTING SITES remain open throughout the Commonwealth. For specific information on site locations, please visit www.mass.gov/COVID19

Assistance

The Board acknowledged that there is a growing population suffering from depression and other mental health issues. “People are tired, frustrated, angry and lonely.” If you are suffering, please reach out. Talk to someone! There are people who can help!

Available assistance; Samaritan Crisis Hotline (1-877-870-4673), or Text HOME to 741741.

Confirmed Cases

The confirmed case count as of April 8, 2021 is 2303, an increase of 34 cases from last report. Please note, this number reflects the total number of cases confirmed since March 2020. Please be advised that this number is not indicative of any detected cluster in the community.

While many have received the vaccine, it is important to continue to be vigilant. The Board urges everyone to

• WEAR A MASK AT ALL TIMES
  
• STAY SIX FEET APART
  
• WASH YOUR HANDS

It is our hope that we are beginning to turn the corner in the battle against COVID19. Your continued cooperation in following the prescribed protocols will move us closer to winning the war!

Keep the faith! We’ve got this, Dedham!

Resources

Residents are encouraged to visit the website, dedhamcovid19.com, for all town updates as the COVID-19 situation develops. Visitors can subscribe via email to receive notifications for new posts.

Although Town Hall remains closed to the public, the Health Department is staffed and available to address all questions and concerns. We encourage residents and businesses to contact the office at 781-751-9220 with anyquestions or concerns. The Board most respectfully asks for your patience and understanding of the demands on the Department. All inquiries and complaints are important and will be addressed. Please remain kind and respectful!

The Board appreciates the continued collaboration with all Town departments in assisting residents and businesses adapt to the new normal.

The Board again wishes to remind the public to properly dispose of gloves and masks at all public locations.

The Board wishes to thank the Health Department staff for their continued dedication during these unprecedented times.

Stay safe and be kind!

Respectfully submitted by the Board of Health,
Leanne Jasset, Chairman
Kathy Reda, Vice-Chairman
Mary Ellard, Member

This press release was produced by the Town of Dedham. The views expressed here are the author’s own.