Town of Winthrop Provides Update on COVID-19 Crisis in Town, Cites Resident for Gathering Violation

WINTHROP — Public Health Director Meredith Hurley, Town Manager Austin Faison and Police Chief Terence Delehanty report that the Town of Winthrop remains at high risk for COVID-19 and is continuing to carry out enforcement against gatherings that counter the town’s efforts to keep residents safe.

At this time, the town is still designated a “red” community by the Commonwealth. Since receiving this designation, the town has worked in close collaboration with the  Department of Public Health to address the recent rise in the prevalence of the novel coronavirus in the community. 

The Town of Winthrop reported nine new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, resulting in 9.88 cases per 100,000 residents, placing it above the state’s threshold of eight cases per 100,000 residents that merits a high risk designation.

Winthrop Police and the Health Department cited one residence recently, issuing a fine of $300 for hosting a gathering that swelled beyond the limits imposed by the Commonwealth.

On Saturday, Oct. 2, officers conducting targeted enforcement encountered a large party taking place at 40 Argyle St. Officers observed dozens of people gathered both inside and outside the residence who were neither wearing masks nor social distancing, in violation of state mandates. The same residence had been warned the weekend prior after hosting a party with approximately 100 attendees who were likewise flouting social distancing and masking rules. 

Click here for the latest information on gathering limits.

According to data shared each Wednesday by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, there have been 19 confirmed positive cases of the virus confirmed in Winthrop over the past two weeks. There are currently 19 active cases of COVID-19 in Winthrop.

COVID-19 prevention tips from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health include:

• Remember that an infected individual can spread COVID-19 before they have symptoms, which is why social distancing, maintaining a minimum of six feet from others, is critical. 
• Those who must go out are urged to:
  • Avoid gathering in groups
  • Maintain six feet from people outside your household
  • Do not shake hands or hug
  • Wash your hands often
• Those who are at a high risk for COVID-19, including those over the age of 65 and with underlying health conditions, are advised to stay home and avoid non-essential tasks and errands
• Wear a mask in indoor and outdoor spaces where social distancing from people outside your household is not possible. This does not apply to those under the age of two and with underlying health conditions. 
• Face coverings should:
  • Cover the nose and mouth
  • Fit snugly and comfortably against the side of the face
  • Be secured with either ties or ear loops
  • Permit breathing without difficulty
  • Be able to be washed and machine dried without damage. Face masks should be washed regularly depending on the amount of use. 

For more information about COVID-19 prevention and symptoms, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website here and the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website here.

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