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Saugus gets the aide it needs
By Elyse Carmosino | April 6, 2020
SAUGUS — Friday, April 3, Town Manager Scott Crabtree announced the appointment of a new staff member to assist the Saugus Health Department and Board of Health in their efforts to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
Jeanine Aniello Flaherty, described in a press release from Crabtree as a “skilled public and private health professional” with 25 years experience, will aid the Town’s Health Director and Board of Health in better supporting and aiding the public during the current health crisis.
She holds a Master of Public Health in epidemiology, biostatistics, and social and behavioral health from Boston University, and has previously worked as the Executive Director for the City of Taunton Board of Health, the Board of Health Director for the Town of Stoneham, and as a health inspector for the Reading Board of Health.
Flaherty is one of several new Health Department members the Town Manager has brought on board in recent weeks as Crabtree recently announced the hiring of several public health nurses and a former Director of Public Health to also assist Saugus during this time.
In addition, the Town has also increased the hours of Saugus’s current public health nurse, Mary McKenzie, and hired two new Town custodians to clean and sanitize all municipal buildings on a regular basis.
“The health, safety, and protection of the residents and employees of Saugus continue to be our top priority during this uncertain time. The Town of Saugus is here to assist the community in this time of uncertainty. Please do not hesitate to call us with any questions or concerns,” said Town Manager Crabtree.
As the health crisis continues to evolve, Crabtree is urging Saugus residents to continue adhering to the following preventative measures recommended by the State:
Wash hands often;
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth;
Clean things that are frequently touched;
Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze;
Stay at home if you are sick;
Older adults and those with health issues are urged to avoid large crowds. Individuals who live in households with vulnerable people, like elderly parents, should also consider avoiding crowds;
Think ahead about how to take care of yourself and loved ones if the virus starts spreading in the community.