COVID-19 Update

March 12, 2020

I wanted to update you on the measures Connecticut is taking regarding Coronavirus (COVID-19) and discuss what you can do to keep your homes and workplace as illness-free as possible.

Public hearings are being postponed for the week of March 16 and the Legislative Office Building has been ordered closed for the rest of the week to undertake a thorough cleaning.

Governor Ned Lamont declared a public health emergency and a civil preparedness emergency in response COVID-19.

The declarations will allow the Governor and state agencies to more quickly expand the state's sample collection and testing capabilities for the virus. The Connecticut Insurance Department has been instructed to notify travel insurance companies about the emergency declarations and will monitor those firms for compliance with the terms of their policies. In addition, the emergency triggers the state's laws against price gouging to protect consumers from unscrupulous merchants.

For the latest information, resources, and guidance related to COVID-19, visit ct.gov/coronavirus.

Here are some Key Points from the Governor's office released today

The Connecticut DPH State Laboratory has confirmed three additional individuals have tested positive. In total, 95 individuals have been tested at the State Laboratory: 6 positive and 89 negative.

  • Governor Lamont is signing an executive order that takes several actions:
    • Prohibits all events in the state with over 250 people;
    • Modifies the state law requiring schools to be in for 180 days;
    • Clarifies visitor restrictions at all nursing and convalescent homes;
    • Authorizes DMV to extend renewal deadlines to reduce crowds at DMV branches; and
    • Relaxes attendance rules for police academy trainees.
    • The DMV is ordering a 90-day extension on all license renewals.

State and Federal Cooperation

Leaders of the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) and the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been in constant communication about preparedness and an action plan if and when cases are confirmed in our state. Connecticut residents should take the necessary precautions as outlined by the CDC.

Coronavirus symptoms can include:

  • Fever (100.4°F/38°C or higher)
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath

TIPS
Whether traveling or not, the best way to avoid coronavirus is to avoid exposure. Below are some important tips to consider:

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
  • If unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Stay home when you are sick
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces with a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.