Somerville Coronavirus: Case Count Rises To 188

SOMERVILLE, MA — The number of confirmed cases of the coronavirus is nearing 200, according to the latest numbers from the city. As of Thursday, April 9, there are 188 people who have tested positive for the virus.

There has been one death from the coronavirus in Somerville. Sixty-three residents have recovered.

The city's 311 Constituent Services Division on Friday announced a new initiative to provide residents with one-on-one expert guidance during the public health crisis. The Community Support Team is made up of more than 20 volunteers with specialized knowledge and expertise in healthcare and/or social support services available to people and businesses affected by the pandemic.

Members of the team will not offer direct medical advice, but Support Team
members with professional experience in the healthcare field or the Medical Reserve Corps are equipped to answer coronavirus-related questions and connect callers to appropriate health, mental health and personal safety resources.

Similarly, additional Support Team members will specialize in helping community members navigate and access the increasingly diverse sources of financial assistance, food access and other supports needed to address COVID-19 impacts. Callers will receive initial guidance and referral to more in-depth assistance.

As of April 9, members of the Community Support Team will be available Monday through Friday
between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. by calling 3-1-1 (TTY 866-808-4851) or 617-666-3311 from outside the city. Information on additional resources is available at somervillema.gov/coronavirus.

Previous updates on the coronavirus in Somerville:

• Renewing Parking Permits: The City is not requiring residents to apply and pay for new parking permits at this time. Your current permit - even if it is expired - remains valid, and you will not receive a ticket for an expired permit. However, if you are able to afford a parking permit and can apply and pay for it online, please do so. This will help to keep the Parking Department from being overwhelmed when City buildings reopen and will help fund essential services provided by the City to residents and businesses.
• New State Guidelines for Grocery Stores: City staff are working with grocery stores to implement new entry limits set by the MA Dept. of Public Health. The total number of patrons allowed in stores at one time may not exceed 40 percent of their usual capacity.
• Property Tax Extension: To help alleviate financial pressure during the COVID-19 crisis, property tax bills that are normally due May 1 are now due June 1, and no late fees or interest will be charged to tax bills paid by June 29 . In addition, interest and penalties on water and excise bills that were due on March 10, or later will be waived if the bill is paid by June 29. However, because taxes and water and sewer fees fund essential services, residents and homeowners who are able to pay on time are encouraged to do so. For more information about property taxes and this extension, visit the City’s Assessing website.
• New Nursing Home Family Resource Line: The State has launched a hotline for family members of nursing home and rest home residents seeking information or resources. The Nursing Home Family Resource Line can be reached at 617-660-5399 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. Staff will field questions on a range of topics and coordinate across state agencies to help provide answers.