North Andover Coronavirus Update: 5 Deaths, Nearly 100 Cases

NORTH ANDOVER, MA — Five residents have died of the new coronavirus, North Andover reported in a release Thursday afternoon. Two deaths had previously been reported. All five deaths were elderly residents with pre-existing medical conditions, the town said.

Ninety-six residents have tested positive for the virus in total. The majority, 53, have recovered, while 38 cases remain active.

"We continue to urge you to practice social distancing, only leave your home for passive exercise and essential business, and to use good handwashing and other recommended procedures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 in our community," the town said.

The town also said Thursday that the Food Assistance Program is still distributing food on Patriots Day, Monday. Residents can pick up food at the high school, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Order online here or call 978-208-6070, option 3.

The town food pantry is in dire need of donations, the town said. They need items like pasta, sauce, shelf-stable milk, and "food items that would be adequate for a hearty dinner." Contact Deanna Lima at dlima@northandoverma.gov or 978-989-1048 with questions.

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Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.