Scotch Plains Saw Record Number Of New COVID Cases In November

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — Scotch Plains saw more coronavirus cases in November than it has during any other month since the pandemic began.

As of Monday, Scotch Plains reported a total of 187 new cases in November. This is 13 more cases than the previous highest month in April, which had 174 cases. The record number comes as cases continue to spike amid the second wave of the virus in New Jersey.

Additionally in November, Scotch Plains did suffer its first death from the coronavirus in 4 months, said Mayor Al Smith on Nov. 17.

The death was an older person with underlying conditions, according to Smith.

"We should keep everyone who suffers from this terrible virus in our thoughts and our prayers. We should never minimize the harm it has wrought on the families who have lost loved ones, or on those who have recovered less than perfectly," said Smith.

As of Monday, Scotch Plains has reported a total of 630 coronavirus cases and 16 deaths since March.

As cases climbed this month the Scotch Plains-Fanwood Regional School District Superintendent Dr. Joan Mast made the decision to switch students over to virtual learning through Friday, Jan. 15, 2021. Read More: Scotch Plains Superintendent 'Stands Firm' In Switch To Virtual

"As superintendent, my job has never as arduous as it is today. And although not universally popular, I stand firm in the decisions I've made knowing they are made to protect the health and safety of our students and staff," said Mast.

Union County reported 329 new cases on Tuesday bringing the total to 28,756 cases and 1,267 confirmed deaths.

As a result, the free Union County Drive-in Coronavirus Test Center at Kean University has expanded and is now testing four days a week due to increased demand. Read More: Union County Expands Drive-In Coronavirus Testing As Demand Grows

Union County is also offering free walk-up COVID-19 tests for Union County residents during the month of December. Read More: Union County Offers Free Walk-Up Coronavirus Testing In December

Smith previously put out a message to residents urging them to be safe.

"In the meantime, we need to continue to do the right thing. Be responsible and limit you and your loved ones’ exposure to the virus. This doesn't mean we have to stop living our lives. In fact, what I am advocating is that we live our lives as normally as possible but with a heightened sense of care and respect for others," said Smith. "Although death rates are down, every life we lose to the virus is avoidable and unacceptable at this point. If we consciously live with care and respect for others, we can flatten the spike."

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