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Date: 5/19/2022
SPRINGFIELD – With COVID-19 cases steadily rising, Mayor Domenic Sarno and Health and Human Services Director Helen Caulton-Harris announced a mask advisory on May 6 for individuals who are high-risk and dealing with underlying health conditions.
The decision follows the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) May 3 statement recommending mask wearing for when people are indoors in public settings, on public transportation and at transportation hubs.
After the omicron variant led to a surge of cases in January, COVID-19 cases dwindled in the following months until the development of a recent uptick in Springfield. According to Health and Human Services’ data, the week of April 24 featured 350 positive cases, which represents a noticeable rise from the 71 positive cases on the week of March 20. The 350 cases during that week also showcased an increase from 250 cases during the week of April 17.
At the time of the city’s statement, critical hospital numbers remain stable. Sarno expressed some concern about the recent increase.
“Although our critical hospital numbers are stable, this steady uptick of COVID-19 cases is concerning and we want to remain proactive and preventative instead of waiting to react to the situation when it could be much worse,” said Sarno in his official statement.
The mayor emphasized that the advisory is not equivalent to a mask mandate. Sarno said he aspires for the city to increase vaccination and booster shot participation to address the uptick.
“I want to be clear, this is not a mask mandate; we are not there – yet. It is our hope that we will continue to increase our vaccination numbers and that those critical hospital numbers remain manageable,” said Sarno.
In her statement, Caulton-Harris highlighted COVID-19’s continued presence in society. “I cannot stress enough, that this virus is here to stay, and we must all remain vigilant. This is not a sprint; this is a marathon and unless we get vaccinated, we are at risk,” said Caulton-Harris.
The health and human services director stressed that her office will continue to promote vaccine advocacy as cases increase.
“The Department of Health and Human Services will continue to work with all of our community partners to make sure that this life saving vaccine is readily available for everyone. There is still much work to do but together I have the full confidence that if we remain vigilant and take the appropriate actions that is needed we will get through this stronger and healthier,” said Caulton-Harris.
Readers interested in receiving a vaccine or booster shot can schedule an appointment at https://www.springfield-ma.gov/cos/covid/covid-19-vaccine-appointment-and-clinics.