For Immediate Release: 6/11/2020 5:29 pm
There are 5,068 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in the City of Worcester, an increase of 39 cases from Wednesday, June 10,
Positive case counts in surrounding towns: Shrewsbury: 310 (no change); Holden: 112 (no change); Grafton: 92 (no change); Leicester: 147 (no change); Millbury: 234 (+2).
All combined medical facilities of Saint Vincent Hospital and UMass Memorial Health Care had 77 (-16) total COVID-positive in-patients and 32 (-5) total COVID-positive ICU patients today. To date, their facilities have had 314 (+4) total COVID-related deaths. A total of 355 of their employees (+5) have tested positive for the virus.
The number of total COVID-positive patients in the combined hospital systems represents a decrease of 207 since May 1.
The total number of COVID-positive ICU patients in the combined hospital systems represents a decrease of 75 since May 1.
Beaumont Rehabilitation census: 34 in-patients; Total of 212 treated; 112 beds available.
North High homeless shelter census: 21 clients (COVID-19 negative; no change from Wednesday)
Family Health Center was at North High yesterday to test clients, staff, volunteers and personnel. They are expected to notify them of those results tomorrow afternoon.
A total of 29 clients have secured more stable housing opportunities or been connected with residential treatment services
Senior Center update: Number of seniors contacted to date: 10,644; Outreach phone calls made to seniors today: 155; Number of meals delivered in Worcester today: 1,067.
A reminder to residents that the use of fireworks is illegal in Massachusetts. There has been an alarming increase in complaints about fireworks being used in Worcester. Fireworks are dangerous, and can result in serious injury, even death. They are extremely disruptive and can cause unnecessary fear and anxiety for residents, children and pets. To report fireworks being set off in your neighborhood, call the Worcester Police Department Complaint Line at 508-799-8606.
The City Manager recognized Medical Director Dr. Michael Hirsh as Unsung Hero in the City. Dr. Hirsh has been a steady and reassuring figure during the COVID-19 crisis, offering medical advice and guidance at regular media briefings. He is the Surgeon-in-Chief of the UMass Memorial Children’s Medical Center since 2001 and Chief of the Division of Pediatric Surgery. He is also a Professor at the UMass Medical School. Last year, became Assistant Vice Provost for Wellness and Health at the Medical School. He is Director of the Injury Free Coalition for Kids and founder of the UMass Memorial Injury Prevention Program, which has educated thousands of children and youth on safety issues ranging from bike helmets, pedestrian and traffic safety, to driving and guns. Dr. Hirsh is the founder of Goods for Guns, first in Pittsburgh and then in Worcester. The program has grown significantly over the years in Worcester and has resulted in turning in of thousands of guns. He joined the City in 2012 as Acting Public Health Commissioner, later taking on the role of Medical Director. During the COVID crisis, Dr. Hirsh has guided and advised the City, and has been an invaluable resource of knowledge with his medical advice and keen insights. He has received many awards for his commitment to improving the health and safety of our community. Most recently, he received the UMass Medical School Graduate School of Nursing “Outstanding Community Partnership Award.” The City is proud to honor Dr. Hirsh for all he does for the community each and every day.
Donations are still being accepted to the Worcester Together Fund at WorcesterMA.gov/coronavirus, or by texting “worcestercovid19” to 243725.
The next City of Worcester COVID-19 media briefing will be held Thursday, June 18 at 4:30 p.m. on the third floor of City Hall. Going forward, media briefings will be held each Thursday only.
