Rate of Covid-19 infections slowing in Dartmouth

The rate of new coronavirus cases in Dartmouth appears to be slowing with 35 new cases this week, as Governor Charlie Baker this afternoon announced an outline for the state to start re-opening businesses in four phases.

According to the Board of Health, there are now 237 reported cases in town. The end of April had seen increases as high as sixty new cases per week.

Roughly half of all cases in Dartmouth are within congregate living facilities, such as nursing homes like Brandon Woods, assisted living facilities like Autumn Glen, and medical facilities like psychiatric hospital Southcoast Behavioral Health.

The Bristol County House of Correction has also seen 11 staff members and one inmate test positive for the virus.

On May 11, town officials observed 98 percent of patrons at large retailers complying with the governor’s order to wear face coverings in public, according to a statement released by the Board of Health.

“This is encouraging and we are grateful for the level of commitment that everyone has made to combat this disease,” noted the public health body in the statement. “Efforts will continue to monitor compliance with the order and to address any concerns as needed.”

The board also reminded residents that “cloth face coverings are only effective when worn over your nose and mouth, when hands remain away from the front of the mask and face, and with frequent washing of hands and face coverings.”

Massachusetts has seen 78,462 confirmed cases of the virus as of May 11, resulting in 5,108 deaths. Bristol County has seen 4,999 cases.