Town of Andover Urges Residents to Remain Vigilant Against Spread of COVID-19

ANDOVER — Town Manager Andrew P. Flanagan and Director of Public Health Thomas Carbone are are urging the community to follow COVID-19 prevention guidance to prevent further spread of the virus in the community.

As of Wednesday, there are 10 active cases of COVID-19 in town and one probable cases. Andover has had a total 398 confirmed cases of COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic.

At this time, the town has an average case rate of 5 cases per 100,000 residentsand is still designated a yellow, moderate risk 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 and the surrounding area.

“As we continue to combat the pandemic, it’s vital that everyone continues social distancing, wearing a mask, washing their hands frequently and to please stay home if you are sick,” Carbone said. “These steps can go a long way towards preventing any further spread of the virus in the community and protecting the health and safety of Andover residents.”

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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