April 24th COVID-19 Update

April 24, 2020
To help you and our neighbors stay up-to-date on the ever-evolving stream of information related to the COVID-19/coronavirus pandemic, my office and I are working to provide news as it develops over social media and by email. This is a recap of some of this week’s highlights.
 
Below you can find information on the following topics:
  • Cloth Face Covering Do's and Dont's
  • Talk It Out Hotline
  • Food Resources for Kids
  • Connecticut's First Rapid Testing Site Launched
For more information about the state's response efforts visit ct.gov/coronavirus.
 
To receive text message notifications, sign up for CTAlert, the state’s emergency alert system. To subscribe, text "COVIDCT" to 888-777.
 

CLOTH FACE COVERING DO'S AND DON'TS

The Governor has asked for people to wear cloth face coverings wherever close contact is unavoidable. This includes taxi, car, ride-sharing and mass public transit.

  • Read the full Executive Order here.
  • Watch the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Jerome Adams demonstrate how to make your own face mask here.
  • Spanish language tutorials on how to make a face mask with and without a sewing machine are available here.
  • American Sign Language video on how to make a face mask can be accessed here.

TALK IT OUT HOTLINE

When it builds up, talk it out.

Trained professionals are just a call away for parents who wish to discuss concerns and anxieties surrounding family life under COVID-19. You can reach them at 833-258-5011, Monday- Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on the weekends, 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

English and Spanish language operators are available.

FOOD RESOURCES FOR KIDS

The Office of Early Childhood (OEC) wants you to know you’re not alone. The OEC offers many options to make sure Connecticut families are well-fed during this difficult time.

Read a flier they have developed here for sites near you serving breakfast and lunch to kids 18 and younger. Their webpage will be updated daily as meal sites are added.

CONNECTICUT'S FIRST RAPID TESTING SITE LAUNCHED

Earlier this week, a rapid coronavirus testing center opened in New Haven.  With the ability to test up to 750 people per day, pre-registration is required in advance online.

Although in partnership with CVS, it's important to note that testing will not take place at CVS locations. Social distancing will be adhered to, and people are asked to remain in their vehicles. Testing is free and results take approximately 30 minutes. 

To read more, and access the link to register, click here.