Massachusetts Cases Increase to 414; 15,000+ Nationally

BOSTON – Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced there are now 414 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in Massachusetts, as of 4 p.m. today, March 20.

Yesterday, there were 328 cases.

[broadstreet zone=”59982″]

City of Framingham has 7 positive cases.

Town of Ashland now has 2 positive cases.

The first death, related to COVID-19 was registered in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts today.

Nationally, there are 15,219 cases, according to the Centers For Disease Control. Yesterday, there were 10,442 cases. There are cases in all 50 states.

There have been 201 deaths due to the coronavirus, according to the Centers For Disease Control.

[broadstreet zone=”53820″]

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has said the COVID-19 virus is highly contagious.

He said for 80% of Massachusetts residents, it will feel like the flu, but for the other 20%, it would be worse.

But unlike the flu, there is no tested vaccine for Covid-19 in the United States.

Unlike the flu, there is no vaccine for COVID-19.

Many of the things you do to help prevent colds and the flu can help protect you against coronavirus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Clean things that are frequently touched (like doorknobs and countertops) with household cleaning spray or wipes.
• Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze. Use a tissue or your inner elbow, not your hands.
• Stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others.

[broadstreet zone=”59983″]

It is important for residents to continue to practice social distancing.

For all SOURCE reports related to the Coronavirus, click here.

Framingham Public Schools have been closed since Thursday, March 12, and are not scheduled to re-open until April 7, at lease. The Governor ordered all schools in the Commonwealth closed between March 17, and April 6.

Framingham City Hall is closed, but staffers are taking phone calls and answering emails.

The Mayor announced the Framingham Public Libraries and the Callahan Center would be closed through at least March 30.

Framingham Parks & Recreation is closed and Health Director Sam Wong urged residents NOT to use the playgrounds in a video today, March 20.

Restaurants and bars in Massachusetts can only due take-out and delivery through at least April 6.