64 New Coronavirus Cases In Braintree: Latest Numbers

Braintree MA

01 October, 2020

1:41 PM

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BRAINTREE, MA — About two-thirds of Massachusetts communities, including Braintree, had falling or steady positive coronavirus test rates over the last two weeks, according to new town-by-town data released by the state Wednesday. But the number of cases are still on the rise in town, according to state and local officials. From Sept. 14 through Sept 30, Braintree had 64 new positive cases. Mayor Charles Kokoros said nearly half of the cases were people between the ages of 20 and 29. Less than 1 percent were residents over 60. The town's percent positive rate over the last two weeks remained steady at 1.58 percent. Health officials say positive test results need to stay below 5 percent for two weeks or longer and, preferably, be closer to 2 percent, for states to safely ease restrictions. Four towns remained above that 5 percent positive threshold. Braintree also remained a "yellow designated" community for a second straight week, a designation given to cities and towns that average four to eight cases per 100,000 people daily. "We want to take this opportunity to remind all of our residents that we must remain vigilant against the spread of COVID-19, especially as we have seen an increase in positive cases within our community," Kokoros said. We must all continue to do our part to ensure that the number of cases decreases, returning us to the "green" or "gray" risk designation. This includes continuing to practice social distancing, wearing masks and following the Governor's mandate on gatherings." Kokoros said Braintree's positive case rates will determine if the community can move into Phase 3, Step 2 of the Gov. Charlie Baker's reopening plan, scheduled to begin Monday. The latest step forward reopens indoor performance venues; expands capacity at outdoor performance venues, gyms, museums, driving and flight schools; reopens more indoor activities; and permits fitting rooms to open in all retail stores. It also allows for increased outdoor gatherings at events and in public settings.