Latest Swampscott Coronavirus Updates

SWAMPSCOTT, MA — The new coronavirus outbreak in Massachusetts and across the country is having vast impacts in Swampscott, including the closure of nonessential businesses, the library and schools.

Swampscott officials issued a stay-at-home order for residents that takes effect at noon Thursday. "We here on the local level have a responsibility to do everything that we believe is necessary," Swampscott Town Administrator Sean Fitzgerald said

As of Wednesday, the number of COVID-19 cases in Massachusetts was 1,838 and 15 people have died from the coronavirus. There were 177 cases in Essex County, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health. Swampscott reported its first three cases on March 17.

Under the stay-at-home advisory issued by Gov. Charlie Baker this week, restaurants can still offer takeout and delivery service.

See also: What Is Open, Closed During MA Stay-At-Home Advisory

Here are the latest local updates from Swampscott:

• The state gave local governments permission to delay elections scheduled for this spring.
• Massachusetts schools will remain closed through at least May 3. The school system continues to provide meals to all "citizens in need."
• The state temporarily lifted bans on plastic shopping bags and ordered grocery stores and pharmacies to set aside at least one hour per day for people over 60 to shop.

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