On behalf of the Board of Health, Town Manager John Mangiaratti, Nursing Director Heather York, and Health Director Sheryl Ball wish to inform the community of an uptick in COVID-19 cases in Middlesex County and statewide.
On Saturday, July 31, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) increased the County’s level of community transition from Moderate Risk to Substantial Risk, due to an increase in cases related to the COVID-19 Delta Variant. The Delta Variant is more transmissible than some other variants because it spreads easily and quickly.
Residents are urged to get vaccinated if they have not already done so. Vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of significant illness due to COVID-19, including the Delta Variant. To find a location where you can be vaccinated, visit vaxfinder.mass.gov.
While the Delta Variant is causing some cases of breakthrough symptomatic infection in the United States, the vast majority of COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths nationwide are among unvaccinated individuals.
The most significant levels of spread, and most severe cases of illness and death associated with COVID-19 — including Delta Variant cases — are occurring in places with low vaccination rates. Additionally, vaccinated individuals represent a very small portion of total Delta Variant transmissions.
The CDC’s information is countywide and not Acton-specific. The Acton Public Health Department and Acton Nursing Service have seen no cases of the Delta Variant.
The CDC is also advising residents in communities in both the Substantial Risk and High Risk categories to wear a face covering while indoors, regardless of whether you are vaccinated. Unvaccinated people should be wearing masks at all times.
The Town of Acton also recommends the following measures:
- Stay 6 feet or more from others
- Avoid crowds, and areas that are not well-ventilated
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
The Town will continue to update the public about COVID-19 and the Delta Variant as more medical information becomes available. The Town also will share updates about vaccine booster shots, and groups who may need them, as that information becomes available. Booster shots are not recommended by health authorities at this time.
Residents with questions are asked to call the Acton Public Health Division at 978-929-6632 or Acton Nursing Service at 978-929-6650.