Why Are There New Coronavirus Cases In Hoboken Amid Distancing?

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla said Monday that the number of new confirmed coronavirus cases over the weekend was 23, with nine on Saturday and 14 on Sunday. There were no new deaths. A total of 19 people in the mile-square city have passed away from the virus, and 395 have tested positive.

Bhalla said that he has been receiving a "common question" of why there are new cases, since many bars and restaurants were closed (except for takeout and delivery) on March 16, and people were asked to self-isolate soon after.

Bhalla said, "It’s very difficult to tell where the exposure occurred. Some have gotten infected even though they are staying at home for everything except essential services. Recent statistics have shown that even with stay-at-home orders, those infected still infect approximately one other person, as cited by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo last week."

He added, "This underscores how important it is to stay home whenever possible, even though you may be doing everything right. Please operate under the assumption that every surface and person could have the virus and take precautions like wiping down all your groceries at home, washing your hands or using hand sanitizer after touching any surface like a door handle."

Bhalla encouraged residents to wear masks outside.

"I can’t stress how important it is to stay indoors and exercise in your home during these next few weeks where New Jersey is close to or at its apex," he said. "On behalf of our first responders and medical professionals, please stay home as much as possible – it’s the best way to keep them safe. If you’re going out for a short walk or need to be outdoors for any reason, I strongly urge you to do so away from the waterfront and early in the morning, or later at night to avoid large groups of people."

As of Monday afternoon, there were 4,377 deaths in New Jersey from coronavirus, and 88,806, confirmed cases, up from 3,518 deaths on Thursday.

He said, "You may not think you have the virus because you had no symptoms, but you very well could. And breathing on a railing, accidently bumping into someone else, and more could have a ripple effect."

Bhalla noted in a briefing on Saturday that Hoboken's measures have been working.

He said that while Hudson County’s rate of COVID-19 is 1.5 percent of the total population, and New Jersey’s is .88 percent, Hoboken’s is .7 percent.

"Unfortunately, this virus isn’t something we can win over in a quick battle in a matter of a few days or a few weeks," he said. "My ask to residents is to double down on self-isolation and social distancing, knowing that it’s not just working, but it’s keeping our seniors and other vulnerable populations alive."

He said, "The reality is that COVID-19 can spread much more quickly in urban environments with more people in close contact. Out of all the cities and municipalities in the United States, Hoboken is the fourth most densely populated, with New York City close behind. The difference between our regions is noticeable – Hoboken has less than half the infection rate of New York City, in large part I believe because of our early actions."

He had a word for those who lost loved ones.

"My deep sympathies go out to all those who have had loved ones pass in Hoboken due to this cruel virus," he said. "No one ever wants to lose a family member, but to not be able to say goodbye in person is even more heartbreaking."

The coronavirus testing site in northern Hoboken, run by Riverside Medical Group, now has rapid tests available. Call 201-420-5621 to schedule a test, Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Don't miss Hoboken and statewide news alerts when they are announced. Sign up for free Patch breaking news alerts and daily newsletters.

Bhalla said donations of personal protective equipment for emergency responders can be dropped off at City Hall (94 Washington St., Newark Street entrance) in the basement conference room with our Community Emergency Response Team (CERT).

Experts say that the new coronavirus, also known as COVID-19, is more lethal and much harder to treat than the flu. Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that include the common cold as well as much more serious diseases.

The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the U.S. was on Jan. 21.

Got a news tip or just want to reach out? Email caren.lissner@patch.com.