A Milford resident tested positive for COVID-19 March 16, making it the first known case in that city.
“We have received confirmation from the CT Department of Public Health that a Milford resident tested positive for COVID-19 and is currently recovering at home,” said Milford Health Director Deepa Joseph. “The Milford Health Department is working with the CT Department of Public Health to identify and notify potential contacts that may have been exposed. We encourage residents to continue to practice precautions to slow the spread of this virus and protect the health of our residents as we anticipate seeing additional cases.”
As part of the contact investigation related to the individual who tested positive, the Milford Health Department in partnership with the Connecticut Department of Public Health will notify all individuals considered to be a close contact of the individual and further guidance will be provided.
Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Preventive measures that are encouraged include frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and cleaning high-touch surfaces often.
“Over the last few weeks, the city has gone through great lengths to prepare for COVID-19. The individual is currently home recovering and we will continue to implement efforts to keep Milford residents safe and healthy. Again, I want to stress the importance of social distancing, hand washing, keeping common areas clean, and to heed the advice from our medical and public health professionals,” said Milford Mayor Ben Blake. “The City of Milford has a long history of coming together in times of need and this is no different. While it’s not ideal to implement social distancing, it’s vitally important to reducing the spread of COVID-19.”
The same day, Blake declared a local civil preparedness and health emergency, allowing the city to take emergency measures in order to preserve and protect the public health, public safety, general welfare, peace and security. As a result of this declaration, the city can be eligible for federal reimbursement for activities related to COVID-19 response.