Winthrop Residents Asked To Get Tested For Coronavirus After 2 New Clusters Emerge
WINTHROP (CBS) - Public officials in Winthrop are asking residents to get tested for the coronavirus after two new clusters were identified in the area.
As of Saturday, there are 22 new coronavirus cases connected to clusters stemming from the Winthrop Elks Club and the Pleasant Park Yacht Club.
"Some of these cases are a part of their social circles and things like that," said Winthrop Public Health Director Meredith Hurley said. "Unfortunately, we do expect to see cases increase in the coming days."
Those who attended either place at any point from October 15-18 are being asked by health officials to self-isolate and get tested for the virus.
Officials say the clusters did not come from a large gathering or a big event.
Due to the recent spike, free testing will be made available for anyone in the community next week at the McKenna Basketball Courts for the following times:
- Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 2-7 p.m. (drive-through)
- Tuesday and Thursday from 2-7 p.m. (walk-up)
The town of Winthrop was one of 14 new communities in Massachusetts added this week as a high-risk community for COVID-19. There are now 77 total cities in the state on that list.
"We don't want to be issuing citations or closing places down, but if this continues, that'll leave us with no other options," said Winthrop Police Chief Terence Delehanty.
Hurley is asking residents to do their due diligence and to stay home if they can.
"Wash your hands, wear your masks," Hurley said. "Make sure you are keeping your sector really small."