WORCESTER, Mass. - The City of Worcester issued an advisory on Friday encouraging residents to wear masks indoors.
The number of new positive COVID-19 cases reached its highest point since February and levels of COVID-19 have increased in regional wastewater, according to the city.
Worcester’s seven-day daily average of new positive COVID-19 cases has risen steadily the past eight weeks to nearly 129 cases. The city says hospitalizations at hospitals have also increased, with the total number of COVID-19-positive inpatients currently at 72, including 11 in intensive care.
The city is recommending all eligible residents be up to date on vaccines and boosters, avoid crowded spaces when possible, and get tested for COVID-19 when exhibiting symptoms.
Worcester Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh, UMass Memorial Health president and CEO Dr. Eric Dickson, and Saint Vincent Hospital CEO Carolyn Jackson issued a joint statement to all Worcester residents.
The joint statement advises the following for Worcester residents:
1. Unvaccinated individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible
2. Vaccinated individuals to stay up to date with their boosters
3. Wearing a well-fitting mask indoors, particularly if you or someone you know has increased risk of COVID-19 complications due to factors such as:
- Age (60 or older)
- Immunocompromised or experiencing illness
- Living with a chronic condition like lung disease, heart disease, cancer, diabetes, or obesity
4. Avoiding crowded spaces whenever possible
5. If you attend, wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces (such as graduations or sporting or music events)
6. When dining at a restaurant, wearing your mask as much as possible
7. If you or a member of your household are feeling cold or flu symptoms, testing yourselves and staying home from work and school