MIDDLEBOROUGH — Town Manager Robert Nunes and Health Officer Robert Buker wish to provide the community with regular updates about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic as officials continue to monitor the situation locally and nationally.
There are 14 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Middleborough. As of today, the Department of Public Health reported no new cases.
Middleborough Health Department officials were notified by DPH of the positive test results and have been in contact with the residents. All 14 residents are in isolation per DPH orders.
Close contacts (defined as someone who has spent more than 15 minutes within six feet of a positive case) have been identified, contacted by health officials, and are adhering to DPH orders for quarantine.
Those who are quarantined will be monitored by Middleborough health officials on a daily basis to limit the risk of spread.
In order to protect the residents’ medical privacy rights, no additional information will be disclosed.
Health Officials Urge Residents to Stay at Home
Public health officials urgently encourage all residents to practice social distancing and remain at least six feet away from others while avoiding congregating in groups larger than 10. Regardless of your age, and no matter if you feel sick or not, it is important to follow social distancing guidelines and stay at home away from non-family contacts at this time.
Social distancing will help to minimize exposure among people, especially given that COVID-19 is highly contagious and people may be contagious prior to exhibiting symptoms. Parents should be sure to talk to their children about proper hygiene and prevention methods as well as the importance of social distancing.
Due to the evolving spread of COVID-19 in Massachusetts, Gov. Baker issued a stay-at-home advisory outlining self-isolation and social distancing protocols earlier this month. Massachusetts residents are advised to stay home during this time in order to curb the spread of this virus, with the exception of essential activities such as going grocery shopping or picking up medication.
Town officials would also like to inform residents of the critical importance of not congregating in groups outside. While residents are encouraged to get outside for fresh air, it is unsafe to have groups of people at the playgrounds or playing team and contact sports. Because of this, all recreational areas in Town are closed until further notice.
Town parks should only be used for walking, running and biking while practicing social distancing. Organized sports or pickup games and the use of playground equipment is prohibited. All sports and recreation equipment and toys should be cleaned regularly.
Council on Aging
Meals on Wheels operations will continue. Call 508-946-2490 or email tbrdfrdwgr@middleborough.com to reserve a meal.
The Council on Aging continues to accept donations of individually wrapped snacks, treats and desserts for Meals on Wheels. Accepted donations include pudding, fruit and jello cups, cheese and crackers and other packaged snacks. Homemade goods are not accepted at this time.
Drop offs can be made on the benches at the front entrance of the Council on Aging, 558 Plymouth St., Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Municipal Services
The Middleborough Landfill, 207 Plympton St., will continue to operate regularly Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The landfill will not be accepting cash or check until further notice. Any items that must be paid for will not be accepted. Paint, fluorescent bulbs, mercury items and batteries will also not be accepted.
Stay Informed
The Town encourages everyone to stay informed regarding COVID-19. The following websites are recommended for the most updated information:
- Middleborough Town Manager Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Middleborough-Town-Manager-1557165997897808
- Middleborough Health Department: https://www.middleborough.com/179/Health-Department
- Town of Middleborough Official Website: https://www.middleborough.com/
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health: www.mass.gov/covid-19
- Massachusetts 2-1-1 general COVID-19 information: Click here or dial 2-1-1 (24/7)
- United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: www.cdc.gov
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