Two New Coronavirus Deaths In Union County: Westfield And Linden

WESTFIELD, NJ — The state of New Jersey reported a huge jump in coronavirus cases over the weekend, saying Monday there were a total of 2,844 cases and 27 deaths — including two fatalities in Union County, in Westfield and in Linden.

The mayors of both municipalities confirmed the deaths of their residents.

Don't miss local and statewide announcements about coronavirus precautions. Sign up for free Patch breaking news alerts and daily newsletters.

In Westfield, Mayor Shelley Brindle reported on Sunday: "I am saddened to report that this includes a Westfield resident who passed away at Overlook Medical Center [in Summit]. The resident was a 91-year-old male with underlying cardiac and respiratory conditions who, to our knowledge at this time, was not connected to any other confirmed cases. His COVID-19 test results were received by the Health Department after his death, and their case investigation is now underway."

She added, "Health Officer Megan Avallone will be available for questions during Tuesday’s Town Council meeting to provide any additional information we obtain about this case. This fatality should serve as a sobering reminder about the impact of this pandemic and the importance of following all social distancing measures. Our prayers go out to this family, and to all those who have received a confirmed diagnosis."

Brindle had already reported on Thursday that there were four other cases in the town, including a 38-year-old dad who recounted how hard he had to plead to get a test.

In Linden, Mayor Derek Armstead reported on the city website: "As of today, [Monday], Linden has 12 confirmed cases (2 new within the last 24 hours) of the Covid-19 virus. We also regret to inform you that one of those cases resulted in death. Statewide there are 2,844 confirmed cases. Countywide numbers are still being tallied. More information will be reported as the information is made available."

Officials say they are opening more testing sites and hoping to get more tests. New testing centers are opening almost daily, including a new drive-through coronavirus testing facility in Union County.

For questions about the coronavirus test, the state has set up hotlines here, and you can also call 211 with questions. You can also start with your doctor.

If you need immediate help, call 911.

Experts say that the novel coronavirus, because it's new, is more lethal and much harder to treat than the flu. More than 15,000 people have died worldwide.

Coronaviruses are a family of viruses that include the common cold as well as much more serious diseases. The strain that emerged in China in late 2019, now called COVID-19, is related to others that have caused serious outbreaks in recent years, including severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). The first confirmed case of COVID-19 in the U.S. was on Jan. 21.

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