Video Update for April 15
Good evening Melrose. This is Mayor Paul Brodeur.
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has changed its policy and is now reporting data at city and town level regarding cases of COVID-19. They released their first report covering January 1 through April 14 which shows 86 confirmed cases. DPH will provide weekly updates of this information, and I will report those numbers as we receive them.
For residents seeking additional data about COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts, including breakdown by county, age, ethnicity, as well as hospital case information, please visit the DPH website at the address appearing on the screen. (https://www.mass.gov/info-details/cov...)
I have also heard some stories of people are who are reluctant to call 911 or their doctor when they exhibit symptoms because they think they will overwhelm the healthcare system.
Please understand that our medical professionals and first responders are available and ready to respond. If you think you need help—especially if you experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or pain in your chest, please act. These are life-threatening emergencies, and you should seek care.
Melrosians should also know that the Massachusetts legislature has passed An Act Providing for a Moratorium on Evictions and Foreclosures During the COVID-19 Emergency. The bill, which still needs to be signed by Governor Baker, will provide much needed protection for residential and small business tenants during the pandemic. I want to thank our delegation, Representative Kate Lipper-Garabedian and Senator Lewis for their continuing leadership at the State House.
Finally, today marks the 7th anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombing. Please take a moment to remember those who were killed or injured as well as the medical personnel and first responders who helped that day. Let’s also remember the tremendous community spirit that arose in reaction to that tragedy. It is a reminder that together, we will get through this.
So, please stay home and avoid contact with others; respect the recommended curfew from 9pm to 6am, wear a face covering whenever you leave home; stay at least six feet from other people at all times; wash your hands and clean and sanitize surfaces frequently. Those are the important steps that we need to take to keep ourselves and our community safe.
Thank you and good night.