Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

October 30, 2020 UPDATE

Total case count: 671

Active: 65

Recovered and out of isolation: 561

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 45

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count):19

Dear Neighbors,

On Thursday, a new community level data map was released by the State. The Town of North Andover continues to be classified as a higher risk (red) community.  We currently are classified as red with an asterisk because more than 10 cases AND more than 30 percent of our cases originate from a higher education institution.  The map is based on two weeks of information.  

We have updated our COVID-19 website to include more information regarding the numbers stemming from higher education.  It should be noted that the graph is for informational purposes only, starts with data from the end of September and is not cumulative of all the cases related to higher education in North Andover. The data shown is a snapshot of active cases on an individual day and not two weeks of information as portrayed in the community level data map created by the State.  This allows the town to have the most updated information possible.  It should also be noted that there may be more cases affiliated with a college, but this only includes the cases assigned to North Andover.

For residents who plan to participate in Halloween this year, the Health Department produced an information sheet on best practices to keep your family and your neighbors safe, found here.

COVID-19 Small Business Grants: The Commonwealth of Massachusetts has made $50.8 million in grants available to support small businesses, microenterprises, and their employees, families and communities. Massachusetts Growth Capital Corporation (MGCC) is administering these funds to businesses experiencing economic hardship and a loss of income due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The available funds are divided into two programs, Small Business Grants for 5 or fewer employees and Small Business Grants for 50 or fewer employees. 

The application period is currently open and will close at 12:00PM on 11/12/2020.

For more information about this grant program, Click Here.

For more information on additional resources for small businesses and employers, Click Here.

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities open up, we continue to encourage the community to stay diligent in preventing the spread of COVID-19.  Many of the things that you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses such as the flu, include:

• Wear a face covering or mask whenever in public and when you are not able to physically distance yourself from others. 

• Physical or social distancing whenever in public and as much as possible.

• Avoid large gatherings especially as it gets colder and more events are being held inside.

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

• Clean things that are frequently touched (like doorknobs and countertops) with household cleaning spray or wipes.

• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your inner elbow, not your hands.

• Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others.

These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19.  Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  We understand that you may need to go to potentially crowded public places and stores so please follow our Tips to Shop Safely during COVID-19, found here. 

Town Hall and the Library are open by appointment.  

To make an appointment at the library contact: https://www.stevensmemlib.org/latest-reopening-news/

To make an appointment at Town Hall please contact the necessary office.

The COVID-19 hotline is still available at 978-208-6070.  Messages left on this line are sent directly to Town staff and will be answered during regular business hours.  

The best source of guidance and recommendations is the DPH website:

www.mass.gov/2019coronavirus.

Questions about the town’s response or about the illness, in general, can be sent to covid19@northandoverma.gov.

We will continue to monitor this situation and will distribute necessary information and guidance.  

Best,

Melissa Rodrigues, Esq.

Town Manager

COVID10.30.pdf