Statement From The Board of Health Regarding COVID

The decision of the Board in rescinding the prior vote regarding a mask mandate is made in an effort to arrive at a more coordinated approach both in Rochester within Town buildings and retail/commercial establishments and in the tri-town area generally.  While we work collectively on this, it is important to note the reason why such actions are necessary at this time.

Since July we have had 61 cases of COVID-19 in the Town of Rochester

On July 30, 2021 the Department of Public Health issued an advisory on wearing face masks.

DPH monitors the number of cases weekly and posts it on their website.

Since July 22, 2021 our percent positivity rate in Rochester has greatly increased.

On July 22 the Towns transmission rate was 3.8

July 29 11.3

August 5 27.7

August 12 31.5

August 19 31.5

Since July 29, 2021 we have been the highest transmission rate in Plymouth County.

The CDC has advised that everyone should be face coverings in public indoor places due to the rise in COVID cases. They also advised that in areas where you have a high transmission rate, such as in Rochester, vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals should wear a mask in public indoor places.

The BOH remains concerned regarding the vaccination rates for the Town of Rochester. The Department classifies the data under age groups. As we look at this data we are finding that low vaccine rates are in the 12 year old to 39 year old age groups. Please consider and get vaccinated. If you are in doubt, please contact your health care provider.

A vaccination clinic with the Southcoast Mobile Van will be in Town at the Plumb Corner Mall in Studio 105 on Wednesday, September 8, and Wednesday, September 29, 2021 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.  They will be administering the 2 dose Pfizer vaccine.

As the Board works towards a unified approach, we urge everyone to do their part in protecting themselves, their loved ones, and the more vulnerable members of our community.

08/25/2021