More COVID-19 cases diagnosed in Saugus

SAUGUS — More cases of COVID-19 have been diagnosed in Saugus, bringing the total number of local cases up to four. 

Town Manager Scott Crabtree announced Monday the Saugus Health Department received notification that more residents tested positive for the virus, which the CDC reports is transmitted primarily via respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.  

“The Town of Saugus is asking parents to avoid sending kids to the parks and play areas where the virus may be transmitted and/or social distancing cannot be maintained pursuant to the governor and Saugus Health Department orders,” read a statement by the Town Manager’s office. “Fields, tennis courts, and other fields have been locked where applicable for the safety of the public.”

Test results are typically provided by the MDPH to the local Board of Health, and Saugus’s positive cases as of Sunday were included in the 525 cases announced by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on the same day, March 22. 

(As of Tuesday, March 24, that number has climbed to 777).

Crabtree’s statement advised residents to practice social distancing and other guidelines recommended by the CDC. 

These include: 

1. Protect yourself by following public health advice about keeping your hands clean and covering coughs and sneezes.
2. Stay home if you are sick. If you need to consult a healthcare provider, call ahead first or use telehealth services.
3. Protect others who are most at risk of COVID-19 by keeping your distance from people (at least 6 feet away from others), especially those who are older, and people living with chronic health conditions.
4. If you are outside, avoid crowds.
5. Don’t shake hands or hug.
6. Stay connected to friends and loved ones by phone or through other technology.
7. Get information from trusted sources. Visit https://www.mass.gov/covid19 for the latest news, case counts, and lab testing results.

For more information on COVID-19, visit the Town of Saugus Health Department page, check the MDPH website,  or call the health department at 781-231-4117.