New Metrics Take Medford Out Of High-Risk Category

MEDFORD, MA — Medford was designated a moderate-risk community by the state Friday after weeks in the high-risk category.

The city's case count and positive rate both rose, but the state used new metrics for designating risk levels in the latest town-by-town release. Over 100 cities and towns fell out of the high-risk zone due to the change.

Communities can move into the next phase of reopening if they spend three consecutive weeks outside the high-risk category.

>>MA Town-By-Town Coronavirus Stats: Statewide Test Rate Hits 2%

Medford reported 90 cases over two weeks, up from 70 the previous week, and a positive test rate of 0.70 percent, up from 0.58. The city has had 1,432 confirmed cases since March.

Prior to the new metrics, Medford officials said the city would remain a high-risk community for the second consecutive week based on its latest case data. Health Director MaryAnn O'Connor said in an email the revised designation will not impact the city's approach to addressing the crisis.

"Now, more than ever we need people not to let down their guard," O'Connor wrote. "Case counts are rising and although in-school transmission is low, community spread and household spread is very apparent."

Residents are asked to continue to adhere to the governor's mask-wearing and gathering orders, as well as the Stay at Home Advisory. Health officials say residents should stay home while awaiting test results and quarantine for 14 days if they are a contact, regardless of a negative result.

Residents who test positive should communicate with the Health Department.