Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

April 9, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2804

Active: 78

Recovered and out of isolation: 2639

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 87

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 9

Dear Neighbors,

This week is National Public Health Week.  I hope you will join me in thanking and celebrating our amazing Health Department staff that have served us so well over the past year.  The pandemic has certainly thrust them into the limelight and they met the challenge every day.  I’m so proud to work with such a dedicated and talented group, and I can’t thank them enough for their commitment to North Andover.

North Andover continues to be a yellow community on the Commonwealth Covid-19 data map.  At this time, 41 percent of North Andover residents have received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine, and 25% of the community is fully vaccinated.

Residents can pre-register for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/preregister-for-a-covid-19-vaccine-appointment.  On April 19 anyone over 16 years of age will be eligible to be vaccinated so please pre-register now! 

Residents can also call the state at 211 for assistance to pre-register for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the DoubleTree Hotel?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area, those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Phase 4 Step 1 will increase the gathering limits to 100 indoors and 150 outdoors and allow additional venues to open. The Massachusetts Travel Order has been revised and is now a Travel Advisory.  Information on Phase 4 Step 1 and the Travel Advisory can be found at https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-transition-to-phase-iv-of-reopening-plan

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

Resources for Small Businesses:

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

Free Rapid COVID-19 Testing for Small Businesses

Small Business Strong is partnering with DPV Mobile Lab to provide free on-demand COVID-19 Rapid Antigen tests to Massachusetts small businesses that have been hardest hit from the pandemic.

If you need your employees to get tested, please complete the form below. Eligible businesses that are selected will get FREE tests for all of their employers (no more than 10) at their place of business at no cost.

 Eligibility Criteria:

• Employer businesses with 1-10 employees located in Massachusetts.

• Must have had an employee exposed to COVID-19.

• Businesses in all industries may apply, but businesses in the food service and personal care industries will be prioritized.

Complete the form on SmallBStrong.com for assistance today! 

Technical Assistance

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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

Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

April 2, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2749

Active: 84

Recovered and out of isolation: 2578

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 87

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 10

Dear Neighbors,

North Andover continues to be a yellow community on the Commonwealth’s Community Data map.  We had an average daily incidence rate per 100,000 people over the 14 days considered of 28.5 and a positivity rate of 1.16 percent.  This was higher than the week before.

Please be safe over this holiday weekend.  We saw drastic increases in COVID cases after Thanksgiving and the winter holidays.  This virus spreads very easily at small indoor gatherings when people let their guard down at family gatherings.  Please take a look at our holiday guidance and we encourage residents to continue to use best practices to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, including avoiding gatherings, social distancing, diligent mask wearing and protecting our loved ones.  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tFNmZ4I-gDVpeEEPZR3Drt5f44V5BYNB/view?usp=sharing

Currently 35% of North Andover residents have had at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and 22% of the Town is fully vaccinated.

Residents can pre-register for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/preregister-for-a-covid-19-vaccine-appointment

Residents can also call the state at 211 for assistance to pre-register for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  A representative will pre-register you to receive a vaccination and you will be contacted by your preferred method of contact when an appointment becomes available.  Once contacted you will be able to schedule your appointment date, time and location.

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the DoubleTree Hotel?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area, those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Phase 4 Step 1 will increase the gathering limits to 100 indoors and 150 outdoors and allow additional venues to open. The Massachusetts Travel Order has been revised and is now a Travel Advisory.  Information on Phase 4 Step 1 and the Travel Advisory can be found at https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-transition-to-phase-iv-of-reopening-plan

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

Resources for Small Businesses:

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)

The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

Free Rapid COVID-19 Testing for Small Businesses

Small Business Strong is partnering with DPV Mobile Lab to provide free on-demand COVID-19 Rapid Antigen tests to Massachusetts small businesses that have been hardest hit from the pandemic.

If you need your employees to get tested, please complete the form below. Eligible businesses that are selected will get FREE tests for all of their employers (no more than 10) at their place of business at no cost.

 Eligibility Criteria:

• Employer businesses with 1-10 employees located in Massachusetts.

• Must have had an employee exposed to COVID-19.

• Businesses in all industries may apply, but businesses in the food service and personal care industries will be prioritized.

Complete the form on SmallBStrong.com for assistance today! 

Technical Assistance

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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

Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

March 18, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2625

Active: 67

Recovered and out of isolation: 2471 

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 87

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 4 

Dear Neighbors,

As of last week, 12 percent of North Andover residents were fully vaccinated.  62% of residents over 75 were fully vaccinated and 86% of those over 75 have received their first dose.  

Yesterday, the Governor announced a new Covid-19 vaccination schedule and on Monday, March 22 we will move forward into Step 1 of Phase 4 of the Massachusetts Reopening Plan.

Residents can pre-register for a COVID-19 vaccine appointment at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/preregister-for-a-covid-19-vaccine-appointment

Residents can also call the state at 211 for assistance to pre-register for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  A representative will pre-register you to receive a vaccination and you will be contacted by your preferred method of contact when an appointment becomes available.  Once contacted you will be able to schedule your appointment date, time and location.

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the DoubleTree Hotel?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area for persons in Phase 2 Groups 1 and 2.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area (the Danvers site, for example) – those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Phase 4 Step 1 will increase the gathering limits to 100 indoors and 150 outdoors and allow additional venues to open. The Massachusetts Travel Order has been revised and is now a Travel Advisory.  Information on Phase 4 Step 1 and the Travel Advisory can be found at https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-transition-to-phase-iv-of-reopening-plan

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for Small Businesses:

The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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

COVID 3.18.21.pdf

Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

March 8, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2552

Active: 48

Recovered and out of isolation: 2417

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 87

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 4

Dear Neighbors,

North Andover has once again been deemed a yellow/lower risk community in the Commonwealth’s Covid-19 community data map.  Over the two week period analyzed, the town had 94 cases with an average daily incidence rate per 100,000 population of 22.2 and a .89% positivity rate.  This was higher than the week before.  

The Governor announced that Massachusetts advanced to Step 2 of Phase III on March 1 and will start Phase IV of its reopening plans on March 22. For more information on what that means please see the attached press release. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-plans-for-continued-reopening

The state is in phase 2 of the vaccine rollout. Currently, residents 65 and older are eligible for the vaccine, as well as those individuals with two comorbidities. For more information on the vaccine please visit: https://www.northandoverma.gov/health/pages/covid-19-vaccine-information

The State has informed municipalities that they will not receive vaccines to run local clinics at this time.  The Town is actively working with residents to help with booking of appointments and transportation needs.  

Residents 65 and over may also call the state at 211 for assistance registering for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  If no appointments are available when you call, you will be placed on a call-back list and will be called back when appointments are available.  Appointments are added on a continual basis as vaccine doses become available.

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the DoubleTree Hotel?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area for persons in Phase 2 Groups 1 and 2.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area (the Danvers site, for example) – those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Learn more about the vaccine timeline here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine 

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for Small Businesses:

The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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

Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

March 2, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2522

Active: 52

Recovered and out of isolation: 2384

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 86

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 12

Dear Neighbors,

We have seen an uptick in cases over the past week, please continue to practice social distancing and mask wearing.  Spring is just around the corner!

The Governor has announced that Massachusetts advanced to Step 2 of Phase III on March 1 and will start Phase IV of its reopening plans on March 22. For more information on what that means please see the attached press release. https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-plans-for-continued-reopening

The state is in phase 2 of the vaccine roll out. Currently, residents 65 and older are eligible for the vaccine and those with two comorbidities. For more information on the vaccine please visit: https://www.northandoverma.gov/health/pages/covid-19-vaccine-information

The State has informed municipalities that they will not receive vaccines to run local clinics at this time.  The Town is actively working with residents to help with booking of appointments and transportation needs.  

Residents 65 and over may also call the state at 211 for assistance registering for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  If no appointments are available when you call, you will be placed on a call back list and will be called back when appointments are available.  Appointments are added on a continuous basis as vaccine becomes available.

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the DoubleTree Hotel?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area for persons in Phase 2 Groups 1 and 2.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area (the Danvers site, for example) – those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Learn more about the vaccine timeline here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine 

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for Small Businesses:

The federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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

Town of North Andover Updates on COVID-19 response

CONNECT WITH US: Text COVIDNA to 67283

February 23, 2021 UPDATE

Total case count: 2466

Active: 36

Recovered and out of isolation: 2344

COVID-19 Related Deaths: 86

Active Merrimack cases (included in case count): 2 

Dear Neighbors,

The state is in phase 2 of the vaccine roll out. Currently, residents 65 and older are eligible for the vaccine and those with two comorbidities. For more information on the vaccine please visit: https://www.northandoverma.gov/health/pages/covid-19-vaccine-information

The State has informed municipalities that they will not receive vaccines to run local clinics at this time.  The Town is actively working with residents to help with booking of appointments and transportation needs.  

Residents 65 and over may also call the state at 211 for assistance registering for any state run clinic.  You may call 211 seven days a week.  If no appointments are available when you call, you will be placed on a call back list and will be called back when appointments are available.  Appointments are added on a continuous basis as vaccine becomes available.

Wondering what to expect during an appointment at the mass vaccination site at the Double Tree Inn?  This informational (FAQs) and orientation video was produced in partnership with some North Shore Health Departments, a Middleton Board of Health Member and Essex Tech High School Film Department:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XfapEjT4bNE.

Do you or a family member need transportation to a vaccine site?  The Merrimack Valley Regional Transit Authority (MVRTA) offers transportation to vaccine sites within the MVRTA service area for persons in Phase 2 Groups 1 and 2.  If there is a need to go out of the MVRTA area (the Danvers site, for example) – those requests will be handled on a case-by-case basis.  Click here to learn more and to arrange a ride: http://www.mvrta.com/special-services/covid-19-vaccination-transportation-service/

The State has a FAQ page regarding the vaccine, which is available here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-frequently-asked-questions

Learn more about the vaccine timeline here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine 

COVID-19 testing at the Stop the Spread sites is free, easy and painless.  Please consider getting tested over the next two weeks to help stop the spread of COVID-19 to your family and friends.  A list of the sites can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/stop-the-spread 

All of Governor Baker’s emergency orders can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-state-of-emergency

COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grants Round 2 Re-Opened

http://sites.google.com/northandoverma.gov/smallbizrelief 

The Town of North Andover reopened its second round of COVID-19 Small Business Relief Grants, which provides needed financial support to small businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.  The source of funding for this grant program is the Town's Columbia Gas Municipal Discretionary Fund; no taxpayer funds are being used.

In addition to restaurants and personal services businesses, auto/repair service and retail businesses are now eligible to apply for the grant.  Emphasis will still be placed on funding restaurants and personal services businesses. 

If your business applied for a grant and you have not yet heard back from the Town, you do not need to reapply.  Your application will be reconsidered.  Note that grant funding is limited and the Town may not be able to fund all eligible businesses that apply.  

Deadline:  Applications will be accepted until noon on Friday, February 26, 2021. This deadline may be extended at the discretion of the Town if the grant funds have not been exhausted.  Awards are expected to be announced by early March.

Click here to learn more and to submit an application.

Federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for Small Businesses:

A new round of the federal Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is available.  It provides loans to help businesses keep their workforce employed during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. SBA is currently offering:

• First Draw PPP Loans for first time program participants

• Second Draw PPP Loans for certain businesses who have previously received a PPP loan

SBA is currently accepting Paycheck Protection Program PPP loan applications from participating lenders. Lender Match can help connect you with a lender. You can also view all lenders near you on a map.

SBA also offers additional Coronavirus relief

A directory of free technical assistance opportunities for small businesses is available here: mvopenforbusiness.org 

As more and more businesses, restaurants and activities remain open at a reduced capacity, 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. 

• 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.

Please join us in stressing this to your family, friends and neighbors.  

If you get a COVID-19 test for any reason, especially if you are not feeling well then please isolate until you receive your test results.  It is also important to isolate yourself from your family members if possible.  The majority of the transmission we are seeing is from household contacts.  Please be aware and protect your family.  These steps are of the utmost importance and reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Due to the volume of positive cases across the State of Massachusetts, the Community Tracing Collaborative (CTC) was developed to aid Local Boards of Health in the tracing of close contacts in each community. By answering the call from the CTC, you can do your part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.  Your caller ID will show the call is coming from 
MA COVID Team with area codes (833) or (857).

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