Milford Sees Double-Digit Rise In Coronavirus Cases Recently

MILFORD, MA — Milford recorded a double-digit rise in coronavirus cases over the last two weeks, which means the virus may be on the rise in the local area, according to state health officials.

Milford added 15 new confirmed cases, according the Aug. 5 statewide report. The positive test rate also jumped from 1.5 to near 2 percent, a large enough rise for the state Department of Public Health to count Milford among the dozens of communities in the state where the virus is increasing.

DPH began releasing town-level data on coronavirus cases on May 27, but changed the format on July 15 to include the number of new cases documented over the previous two weeks.

Here's a look at how Milford has fared in recent weeks:

Coronavirus may be beginning to creep up in Massachusetts. DPH announced 438 new cases on Tuesday, the biggest jump in months. As of Wednesday, the statewide positive test rate stood at 1.82 percent, and Gov. Charlie Baker has said the state may have to take a step back in the reopening plan if the positive test rate reaches 2 percent or higher.

Baker and other officials are asking residents to remain vigilant against a virus that has killed over 8,000 residents.

"COVID's not taking the summer off, and we can't either," Baker said on Tuesday. "It's critical for folks to remain vigilant in their daily activities."