Coronavirus In Newton: Number Of Cases Rise To 157

NEWTON, MA — As of Sunday, 157 people in Newton had tested positive for the new coronavirus, according to city data.

That's 22 more than the previous day. On April 1, the mayor announced the city's first three deaths associated with COVID-19.

Mayor Ruthanne Fuller has said she will only announce the number of deaths once a week. Boston announces the number of deaths daily, while smaller communities, such as Chelmsford, have said they will not be announcing any numbers.

The Department of Public Health announced 764 new cases of the coronavirus, bringing the total to 12,500 across the state Sunday. Officials said 15 new deaths were reported, making the death count 231.

The rise in numbers Sunday comes as the number of veterans at two state-run Soldiers' homes rose and a third inmate at a Massachusetts prison facility died. Also Sunday, Gov. Charlie Baker announced the opening of a drive-thru testing Center for first responders at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough.

In Boston, it was the largest single-day increase in cases, with the mayor issuing a curfew and more strict coronavirus advisory, including asking that anyone leaving their home wear a face covering, saying this week marks the beginning of a surge period.

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