The Massachusetts Text Alert system for Covid-19 can now be accessed in Spanish. Text COVIDMAESP to 888-777 for Spanish alerts.
The Department of Public Health (DPH) issued an order designed to expand COVID-19 demographic reporting data, including race and ethnicity, to address disparities in the virus’ impact and support the Commonwealth’s COVID-19 response efforts.
The Baker-Polito Administration today announced the expansion of SafeLink, the Commonwealth’s statewide, 24/7, toll-free and confidential domestic violence hotline to now include resources and support for survivors of sexual assault. This hotline is designed for crisis intervention support for those who need assistance in safety planning measures for both themselves and their families. This resource is now available through the 2-1-1 line as an additional method for victims to access help and resources. The SafeLink toll-free number is (877) 785-2020. For the hearing-impaired, the SafeLink TTY number is (877) 521-2601. Advocates are available in English and Spanish and can provide translation in more than 130 languages.
A Massachusetts job portal to connect healthcare professionals with Covid-19 related staffing opportunities has been created. To learn more, or to apply for a position, visit https://www.mass.gov/joincovidteam.
Testing remains limited with a turnaround time of 1 – 4 days and many cases are being clinically diagnosed (no testing or reporting involved). Testing will be dramatically increasing in the coming days which will cause a large spike in reported positive cases. All are advised to behave as though they are carriers of Covid-19.
250 Holyoke residents have been confirmed positive by testing.
1394 confirmed cases in Hampden County (9% increase)
194 in Hampshire (9.5% increase)
135 in Franklin (5.5% increase)
329 in Berkshire county (8% increase)
The curve we need to flatten: County numbers graphed over time can be found here: https://www.wmasscovid.com/
There have been 599 deaths connected to Covid-19 in Massachusetts.
* When recovery counts become available and reported by the state, we will include those as well.