Town of Dartmouth continues to show evidence of widespread community transmission of COVID-19

“The Town of Dartmouth continues to show evidence of widespread community transmission of COVID-19 along with Bristol County, Massachusetts, and the United States.

The presence of community transmission of COVID-19 indicates that this disease can spread over large areas through person to person contact. In our highly mobile and connected world, transmission of this disease is not confined to specific geographic locations with confirmed cases – it is broad and extensive. The continued closure of non-essential businesses remains in effect in order to limit movement of communities in order to decrease disease spread. Additionally, please limit your travel to essential businesses such as grocery stores and pharmacies to once per week. Any type of travel to businesses carries a risk of transmitting COVID-19. Remember, no risk is better than minimal risk.

We understand that as efforts to decrease disease spread continues, the urge for greater movement outside of houses increases. Consider walking, biking, hiking, or exercising outside. Avoid group sports, playgrounds, and other high-contact public areas and activities. While we must remain physically distant from each other, we can continue to be socially connected with our friends, family, and community through digital and online platforms.

The peak of COVID-19 activity in Massachusetts is forecasted to occur in the coming weeks. This means that COVID-19 confirmed cases as of April 13, 2020 in Dartmouth 57, Bristol County 1,394, and Massachusetts 26,867 are expected to rise. The extent of the peak, however, continues to rely on your committed efforts in following best practices to reduce the spread of this disease. Your actions are our best defense against this virus – together from afar we can all save lives.” -Town of Dartmouth.