Health & Fitness

9 Confirmed Coronavirus Cases In Somerville

Health officials said they expect that number to increase as more tests become available.

SOMERVILLE, MA — There are nine confirmed cases of COVID-19, the illness associated with the coronavirus, in Somerville, health officials said Saturday. Officials added that due to a testing shortage, they do not believe the current case count reflects the true number of cases in Somerville. Residents should expect the number of confirmed cases to increase as tests become more widely available.

On Friday, the city closed non-essential personal services and in-person retailers, including hairdressers and barbers, nail salons, massage services, body art, body work, spa services and general retail.

Mayor Joseph Curtatone declared a local state of emergency early last week and ordered the closure of gyms, health clubs, theaters, entertainment venues, social clubs and houses of worship through at least April 6. The city's playgrounds are closed to the public, and fields and courts are only open for passive use, not team games.

Find out what's happening in Somervillefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Schools and daycare centers were closed by state order, and bars and restaurants are only open for takeout and delivery services.

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