Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

October 26, 2020 UPDATE

Current case count: 645

Active: 46

Recovered and out of isolation: 555

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 44

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count):13

Dear Neighbors,

As part of the state’s increased efforts to ensure residents remain vigilant with COVID-19 protections, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts will be activating a Wireless Emergency Alert to phones in North Andover today between 5PM-10PM.  This alert serves to remind people that COVID-19 remains a serious threat, and to remember to wear a mask and be socially distant.

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 higher education.  Without the Merrimack College cases, the Town of North Andover would have a yellow designation.  Out of the 40 cases reported in the COVID map, 14 were related to higher education.  

Thanks to Caroline Ibbitson, our Public Health Nurse, and our amazing Public Health Department, the town had a successful drive through flu clinic last weekend.  Over 270 cars had registered for the event.

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) will be 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 opens today (10/22/2020) at 12:00PM and will close at 12:00PM on 11/12/2020

For more information about this grant program, Click Here.

For more information on 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

 COVID10.26.pdf