Worcester Posts Highest Coronavirus Gain In 6 Weeks

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester officials on Thursday reported the biggest weekly gain in coronavirus cases since early February, which may portend a "little surge" of cases in the coming weeks.

Worcester's increase aligns with a statewide rise. On Thursday, the state Department of Public Health added 12 towns to the list of "high-risk" communities. The state's positive test rate has also creeped up to 2.2 percent from 1.93 percent one week ago.

Worcester added 351 new cases over the week ending March 25. There hasn't been a weekly increase that high since Feb. 11. Worcester's coronavirus pandemic total hit 21,700 on Thursday with 414 resident deaths.

Worcester Medical Director Michael Hirsh said the city is likely "seeing a little surge" in cases due to a few factors: people traveling around the state to places where cases are higher, and then returning to Worcester; and people traveling during spring break to southern states, where more contagious coronavirus variants are circulating.

There's the potential for "a big infusion of potential viral load into the community at a time when we're gathering for Passover, Easter," Hirsh said. "It's a set-up for an even bigger surge."

Meanwhile, about 12 percent of Worcester residents have received both doses of the vaccine. Another 40,992 residents had received at least one vaccine dose, officials said.

"As the vaccine continues to roll out, please continue to keep social distance, wear your mask and practice good hygiene," Mayor Joseph Petty said Thursday. "I know it's hard, the weather is nice. Even if you have your two shots, you still should wear a mask."

Coronavirus case increases in Worcester for the weeks ending:

• March 25 — 351 new cases
• March 18 — 274 new cases
• March 11 — 283 new cases
• March 4 — 261 new cases
• Feb. 25 — 324 new cases
• Feb. 18 — 336 new cases
• Feb. 11 — 550 new cases