Easton Town Officials Issue Statement On Coronavirus

EASTON, MA — Easton town officials from several departments have formed a collaboration to help stay in contact with the State Department of Public Health amid concerns about the coronavirus spreading into the region. Easton Emergency Management Director Kevin Partridge, Director of Health and Community Services Kristin Kennedy and Town Administrator Connor Read released a joint statement on Wednesday updating resident on other steps taken and tips to help prevent the spread of viruses.

The statement said there are no confirmed or suspected coronavirus cases in Easton. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were 80 confirmed cases in the United States, with nine deaths, as of Wednesday afternoon. Massachusetts has one confirmed case and one presumptive case diagnosed in Bristol County on Monday.

The collaborative working group is made up of departments that include the Easton Police Department, Easton Fire Department, Easton Public Schools, Board of Health and the Town Administrator's Office.

Prevention efforts offer the strongest protection from all illnesses including the coronavirus. Individuals are encouraged to continue with diligent hand hygiene, cough etiquette and staying home when sick.

The following website can provide additional information about the novel coronavirus in Massachusetts:

(https://www.mass.gov/guides/information-on-the-outbreak-of-2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19)

Symptoms of the novel corona virus include:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath

Those experiencing any of these symptoms and have traveled within the past 14 days, should not go to work or school, and should contact your primary care physician immediately. Town officials said they will keep residents informed or updated them with any changes.