WORCESTER - The City of Worcester reported 82 new cases of COVID-19 on Thursday, April 30. The total is now 2,071 in the city.
To date, in the surrounding towns there are now 167 positive COVID-19 cases in Shrewsbury, 55 in Grafton, 46 in Holden, 147 in Millbury and 90 in Leicester.
In the month of April, the City of Worcester averaged 65 new COVID-19 cases per day.
COVID-19 related deaths increased to 106 at UMass Medical Center and Saint Vincent hospital. Between the two hospitals, there are 269 COVID-19 positive inpatients, 107 patients in ICU and 172 COVID-19 positive hospital employees.
City Closes Dog Parks
City Manager Ed Augustus announced that the city's three dog parks have been closed to comply with guidance from the CDC.
"The CDC recommends social distancing for dogs, cats, and other animals," Augustus said.
Augustus said a study from the CDC shows pets can carry and pass on COVID-19. The study says cats should stay inside and owners should keep dogs six feet from other animals and people.
WATCH BELOW: Thurday, April 30 - City of Worcester COVID-19 Update
Here are some other updates from today's press conference:
- The Worcester Together Fund is now up to $5.8 million.
- There are 33 homeless individuals at the DCU Center Field Hospital.
- More than 270 Walmart employees were tested on Thursday. More than 100 other employees will be tested on Friday.
- City Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh says the end of the surge is still possible next week and is feeling optimistic about it.
- 18 of 58 individuals at the Albion Rooming House tested positive for COVID-19.
The City will hold a press conference each day at 4:30 PM at City Hall. Each conference can be streamed here live at SpectrumNews1.com.
Watch Thursday's press conference below:
Photo courtesy: City of Worcester/Facebook