COVID In The Caldwells: Homebound Vaccines, Updated Case Counts

CALDWELLS, NJ — As cases of the coronavirus continue to be reported in the Caldwells, the three municipalities are pushing forward with ongoing efforts to slow the spread of the virus.

According to statistics from Essex County, which notes its totals may not match municipal statistics, here are COVID-19 case and death totals for reach municipality as of Wednesday:

• Caldwell – 393 cases, 12 deaths
• North Caldwell – 300 cases, 6 deaths
• West Caldwell – 715 cases, 50 deaths

CALDWELL

Caldwell Mayor John Kelley offered some advice for local residents in his weekly COVID-19 report on Jan. 22.

Kelley wrote:

“As of today, January 22, Caldwell reported 29 new positive COVID-19 cases for a total of 370, 34 of which are currently active. New Jersey reported a rate of transmission of 0.98 with a recent positivity rate of 10.3% for the state and in Essex County as 9.2%.”

The mayor continued:

“Essex County has a solid and proven plan for testing and administering the COVID-19 vaccine. Ours were the first administered in the state and we praise the executive branch, healthcare workers and volunteers for the smooth and effective operation of these vaccination and testing sites. The website is user friendly and the phones are operational and available. Some people report delays or issues with signup, but please keep trying, new appointments open regularly. You should continue to get tested, whether or not you have received the vaccine.”

Kelley said residents can register for a test, or a vaccine when eligible, at an Essex County operated site by visiting Essexcovid.org or by calling 973-877-8456. READ MORE: How, Where To Get COVID Vaccine In Essex County

Kelley added:

“While the vaccine may protect you from getting sick, it is unknown at this time if you can still carry and transmit the virus to others. So, it is still vital for everyone to continue to wear face coverings, keep a social distance of 6 feet or more, regularly wash your hands and stay home if you are sick. The new mutant strains of the virus are estimated to be 50% more contagious and thus these guidelines, especially the wearing of double layered tightly woven face coverings are of greater importance. Remember that social distancing and face covering guidelines must be followed even if outdoors. Please follow this practice and reinforce with those individuals in your households.”

HELPING HOMEBOUND RESIDENTS

Officials in North and West Caldwell have also issued advisories about the county’s vaccination program.

In addition, each municipality is reaching out to homebound residents who can’t make it to one of the Essex County vaccination sites, or others that have been authorized by the state.

In North Caldwell, borough officials are assembling a list of homebound residents who want to receive their two required shots. "The list will be used by our local health department to coordinate a mobile vaccination plan for all such residents," police stated.

Interested homebound residents can email Police Chief Mark Deuer at chief@northcaldwell.org to provide necessary information and to be placed on the list.

• See related article: COVID Vaccine Update In North Caldwell For Homebound Residents
• See related: North Caldwell Top Cop Gets COVID Vaccine: 'This Was My Choice'

In West Caldwell, the township is assembling a list of homebound residents wishing to receive the vaccine. The list will be used by the local health department, as in North Caldwell.

“We ask that you email the township health officer at bwallace@westcaldwell.com to provide necessary information and to be placed on the list,” West Caldwell officials said.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

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