With a rise in Covid-19 cases, and the new omicron variant discovered in New York City, Stamford residents are advised to increase Covid-19 precautions and mitigation measures.

Most importantly, get vaccinated, get your booster, and get your children vaccinated.

Cases throughout Connecticut have risen dramatically in the past few weeks, as the majority of towns are now in the red classification. This classification is based on a daily average exceeding 15 cases per 100k, over a two week period.

Stamford’s state average shows 9.8 daily cases per 100K over the past two weeks. However, internal health data shows the seven day average of cases per 100k in Stamford approaching 15.0 daily cases per 100k. The average was as low as 4.0 in mid-November. This rate of increase is concerning.

“We are seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases and I am deeply concerned as we enter this Holiday season with traditional gatherings.” stated Mayor Simmons. “We are still in this Covid-19 pandemic and it is imperative that Stamford residents remain vigilant and follow appropriate safety precautions. As Mayor, I am strongly urging residents to get vaccinated, receive their boosters, be tested and wear masks indoors.”

Safety precautions include:

• Staying home when feeling ill
• Wearing a face covering when indoors in public regardless of vaccination status 
• Minimizing close physical interaction during social gatherings and organized activities
• Implementing frequent handwashing
• Seeking out testing when sick; or if exposed to others who are ill; as advised by your doctor; or to abide by travel requirements.

The Stamford Department of Health reminds residents that the strongest protection against Covid-19 is to get vaccinated. “We are imploring residents who have not yet received the vaccine for themselves or their children or need boosters to do so to minimize the risk of hospitalization or even death as a result of Covid-19,” said Acting Director of Health Jody Bishop-Pullan. “However, those who are vaccinated should still wear a face mask in public indoor spaces such as grocery and retail stores, building lobbies, and offices to combat the spread of the virus.”

The Department of Health reminds everyone it is important that even vaccinated people consider their risk factors and surroundings when choosing prevention strategies. All of these mitigation strategies combined will help limit the risk of transmission of COVID-19 to keep us all safe.

Residents, visitors, and workers are advised to follow the guidance from Stamford’s Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control to prevent contracting the COVID19 virus. Face masks/facial coverings are required regardless of vaccination status, in the following circumstances:

• On public transport such as buses and trains, inside train stations, in airports, and while in ride share vehicles;
• Inside schools and childcare facilities as directed by State authorities;
• Congregate facilities, such as nursing homes/assisted living facilities, shelters, dorms/residences, and correctional facilities; and
• In Stamford Municipal facilities where there is direct interaction between employees and the public.
• Any private business location that instituted a mask requirement.

Individuals experiencing any of the following symptoms should stay home and get tested for Covid-19:

• Sore throat, even if mild 
• New onset headache, even if mild
• Congestion, with or without a runny nose
• New onset cough, even if infrequent
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fever of 100.4 or higher
• Fatigue
• Chills or feeling feverish, with or without increased body temperature
• Loss of taste or smell
• Muscle or body aches
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

For up-to-date information from the State of Connecticut on COVID-19, including guidance and other resources, please visit www.ct.gov/coronavirus . For more information, please refer to the CDC Coronavirus Web Page. Residents are also reminded that the Flu season is upon us. To prevent getting the flu residents should also get the flu shot as an added precaution.