Good morning, 

 In Massachusetts and in Westford, we continue to see an increase in positive COVID19 cases. 

 State Reported Cases (only) in Westford. These case counts do not include home tests. Home tests are not recorded.

       Month of May

We will continue to see increases and decreases in positivity rates as the variants change over time, an as more people gather indoors and travel. Some variants emerge and disappear while others persist. New variants will continue to emerge and mutate as the virus changes. The current variant of concern is highly infectious, but cases studies are showing that the symptoms are mild in most cases. Many positive cases are reporting a temporary fever or no symptoms at all. Many reported cases mention that they didn’t know they had it (no symptoms) and tested negative several times before being positive. 

 We want to remind employees and residents to stay up to date on their vaccinations, use prevention measures to decrease the risk of developing any viruses. Being up to date on recommended vaccines is effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalizations, and death. 

 Please continue to practice good handwashing, utilizing hand sanitizer when you are unable to wash your hands, stay home if you’re sick and get tested if you think you have COVID or the FLU. Practice social distancing when able and wear a mask in an indoor crowded space. Currently, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Westford Board of Health are not requiring any additional measures. They are all encouraging residents to practice social distancing and continue maintaining their vaccination status. We do have rapid Antigen COVID test kits available for employees if you need a test kit. 

     If you test positive for COVID19 or if you are exposed to someone with COVID19, please follow the below Isolation and Quarantine guidance. 

      Massachusetts Department of Public Health Isolation and Quarantine Guidance  

    https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-isolation-and-quarantine-guidance-for-the-general-public

        Massachusetts Department of Public Health-Data Dashboard 

     https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-response-reporting

 Protect yourself, your family, and your community from COVID19. 

file:///C:/Users/rdick/OneDrive%20-%20Town%20of%20Westford/Desktop/7-steps-to-stay-healthy-during-covid-19-ENG.pdf

 Please call the Health Department if you have any questions at 978-692-5509.

 Thank you, Rae

Rae Dick BS., CP-FS
Health Director
MRC Director
Westford Health Department
rdick@westfordma.gov
O: 978-399-2553
F: 978-692-2558