October 29, 2020 – The Town of Needham and Needham Public Health today provided the following update regarding COVID-19.
State DPH COVID-19 Numbers
The Massachusetts Department of Public Health reports the number of positive cases and deaths daily on the state's COVID-19 dashboard.
Town-specific case numbers are published by the state every Thursday.
- 429 Needham cases to date (10/29/2020) Needham is in the GREEN category this week with 2.4 cases per 100,000 people. See the most recent COVID-19 community map. The state has issued a list of communities not designated as low-risk. Needham is not currently on that list.
- 81 Coronavirus deaths in Needham to date (10/29/20).
Select Board Hears COVID Update from Needham Public Health
Needham Public Health Director Timothy McDonald appeared before the Select Board earlier this week to provide the board with an update on COVID-19 and share what local public health officials are experiencing in Needham. Like many other cities and towns, Needham is seeing an increase in cases and officials are urging the public to continue to take the health threat seriously. You can watch the presentation here (starts at the 1:11:08 mark).
Additional Flu Clinics Available
Needham Public Health has scheduled three flu clinics to offer flu vaccine for seniors and children. The clinics will be held Friday, October 30th (seniors only) at the Center at the Heights; Wednesday, November 4th (Ages 8-18 only) at the Rosemary Recreation Complex; and Wednesday, November 18th (Ages 8-18 only) at the Rosemary Recreation Complex. All clinics will be held at noon and must be registered for in advance. Interested individuals may sign up here.
Halloween Reminder
Stay safe this weekend as you and your family celebrate Halloween. Here are the key tips from the MA Department of Public Health.
State Offers Guidance for Thanksgiving During COVID-19
The state this week released safety tips for celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you host a holiday celebration, keep it small. If you are considering travel, be aware of Massachusetts travel orders. If you participate in a celebration, follow public health guidance.
For Businesses – What to Do if Your Business is Impacted by COVID-19
For businesses wondering how best to protect the health and safety of their employees and the public during COVID-19, the CDC has issued guidance for preventing and responding to COVID outbreaks. Local businesses may also contact the Needham Public Health division at 781-455-7940 with questions or concerns.