Norwalk Sees A Spike In New Coronavirus Cases, Mayor Says

NORWALK, CT — The city appears to be in the midst of a spike in coronavirus cases, with 38 new cases reported in Norwalk as of Monday, according to Mayor Harry Rilling. The increase is the single biggest jump in new case since May.

The increase brings the total positive reported cases in the city to 2,374 since the COVID-19 pandemic began in March, according to Rilling. Over the weekend, 28 new cases were reported, and another 10 new cases on Monday.

He added that there were no new deaths reported over the weekend or on Monday. A total of 149 Norwalk residents have died as a result of the virus.

"The total positive cases in Norwalk are increasing," Rilling said in a statement. "We haven't seen this many cases since May. Clearly things are not trending in the right direction. It is critically important that residents follow all public health guidelines. We are keeping a close eye on this situation and trying to identify trends in the community to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Please, continue social distancing and always wear a face covering in public."

Connecticut overall is seeing an increase in coronavirus cases, with nearly 300 new cases reported at the end of last week, according to state health officials. Since the beginning of the pandemic, more than 60,000 Connecticut resident have been infected with the virus.

State health officials also are seeing that the virus can spread through small gatherings in addition to larger ones.

Last week, Gov. Ned Lamont appointed members to a COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group, which will advise him on "preparations for a COVID-19 vaccine, including the optimization of a statewide vaccine distribution strategy," among other related matters, Rilling said. Rev. Lindsay Curtis, pastor of Norwalk's Grace Baptist Church, is among the members of the clergy named to the group.

"The COVID-19 Vaccine Advisory Group is comprised of health care experts, elected officials, faith leaders, and labor groups," Rilling said. "I applaud Governor Lamont for putting together such a diverse group to help advise the best way to get an eventual vaccine out to the most people in the most effective way."