Manasquan, Belmar COVID-19 Cases Double Since October

MANASQUAN — With New Jersey fully feeling the brunt of the second wave of the coronavirus, the disease's presence in Manasquan and Belmar has doubled over the past month.

Manasquan's cases increased from 99 on Oct. 29th to 191 on Tuesday, an 92 percent jump. Belmar is now reporting 200 cases, up from 77 on Oct. 29th, a 159 percent increase.

The increase in cases comes as Gov. Phil Murphy has said that the second wave of the coronavirus has hit New Jersey hard and as vaccines arrive in the area. Read more: Here's When NJ May Be 'Back To Normal' – And You'll Be COVID-Free

At the same time, some local schools have had to switch to virtual learning because of cases. Read more: Manasquan Switches Days To All-Remote Due To Snow, COVID-19

Murphy, however, has said he doesn't plan to reverse any reopenings. In fact, Murphy has suggested that he may allow schools and businesses to expand their capacity if the state can find a way to manage the spread.

State Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli said contact tracers have been redeployed to the region to investigate if the new cases are related.

Persichilli said New Jersey has seen new cases linked to not only to celebratory gatherings but also solemn gatherings such as funerals.

"No matter the reason, this increase in cases reminds us that this virus is unrelenting," she said. "It treats everyone the same. We are fighting an invisible enemy, and we must continue to be cognizant of that fact, and we must continue to be vigilant to protect ourselves and our loved ones."

Monmouth County Freeholder Director Thomas A. Arnone and Freeholder Deputy Director Susan M. Kiley also announced there were 106 new positive cases of COVID-19 in Monmouth County on Thursday. There are two new deaths being reported today related to COVID-19 in Monmouth County.

Monmouth County will offer free COVID-19 testing for County residents on Saturday, Oct. 31 in Long Branch from 9 a.m. to noon at the Bucky James Community Center, 231 Wilbur Ray Ave.

Residents should note the clinic has 100 tests and once those are administered, the clinic will close for the day. More information about the County’s COVID-19 testing program is available on www.visitmonmouth.com.

Here are the latest local updates from Manasquan:

CASES:

• Manasquan had 181 cases as of Sunday, Dec. 20th, according to the Monmouth County Health Department. Belmar had 198.

ASSISTANCE:

• Manasquan has launched a relief initiative to provide support to those in distress. The Manasquan Borough mayor and council say they recognize the unprecedented health-related and financial hardships that many residents are experiencing as a result of this insidious pandemic. Read more: Manasquan Launches '5 Star COVID-19 Initiative'

BUSINESSES:

• Could you imagine breakfast without a "Dr. Fauci donut?" Jersey Shore Medical Center workers won't have to worry anymore after Main Street Donuts in Belmar ran a "Dr. Fauci" donut drive, named after the leading pandemic disease expert at the White House. Read more: If You Bought 'Dr. Fauci Donuts' In Belmar, You Helped A Hospital
• Mike Morin and his brother, Bryan, co-owners of Federico's Pizza and Restaurant on Main Street in Belmar, took out a credit line of $50,000 to make sure their employees will get paid during the coronavirus crisis. Read more: Belmar Restaurant's 50K Credit Line Pays Workers Amid Coronavirus
• Bryan Morin, co-owner of Federico's Pizzeria & Restaurant in Belmar, later told The Asbury Park Press that he was diagnosed with the coronavirus but he's on the mend. The restaurant hopes to reopen very soon. Read more: Belmar Eatery That Helped Workers Deals With Coronavirus: Report

PERSONAL STORIES:

• This Belmar business owner had provided meals to unemployed, public workers, law enforcement, members of the clergy, hospital workers and others in need, all at no cost. Read more: 'Provides Meals To Unemployed:' Belmar Restaurant Hero