Despite COVID-19 Spike, Malden Unqualified For State Testing Site

MALDEN, MA — A surge in COVID-19 cases statewide is being felt in Malden as well, city officials said Friday. The case count as of Friday was 2,062, with 91 reported deaths. The average daily case rate has also risen to 22.7, but the city remains in the moderate-risk, or "yellow," category under the new state metrics.

Since Malden is no longer a high-risk community, it does not qualify to be a testing site as part of the state's "Stop the Spread" campaign. The program encourages asymptomatic residents to get tested for the virus to help stop the spread. It's offered in Brockton, Chelsea, Everett, Fall River, Framingham, Holyoke, Lawrence, Lynn, Marlborough, Methuen, New Bedford, Randolph, Revere, Salem, Saugus, Springfield, Winthrop and Worcester.

"This is actually a targeted testing program that is based entirely on data and not something that a municipality can simply request," a statement on the city of Malden's website reads. Officials said they are looking into other avenues for similar testing in Malden.

As the holidays approach, residents are urged to limit gatherings, wear a mask, social distance and wash their hands or sanitize whenever possible.