COVID-19 Updates

April 28, 2021

Baker-Polito Administration Announces Plans for Continued Reopening

Face Coverings Order to be Relaxed for Some Outdoor Settings

BOSTON – Today, the Baker-Polito Administration announced that Massachusetts will reopen some outdoor Phase 4, Step 2 industries effective May 10th and put plans in place for further reopening on May 29th and August 1st. The Administration continues to take steps to reopen the Commonwealth's economy with public health metrics continuing to trend in a positive direction. This includes drops in average daily COVID cases and hospitalizations. Massachusetts remains first in the nation for first vaccine doses and total doses administered per capita, among states with more than 5 million people. The Administration will also relax the Face Coverings Order for some outdoor settings, effective April 30th. 

Phase IV, Step 2 Industries and Gathering Changes:

On March 22, Massachusetts loosened capacity restrictions and advanced to Step 1 of Phase IV of the reopening plan. Since then, case rates dropped by 20%. The positivity rate has dropped to the lowest levels recorded since last summer. 

Effective Monday, May 10th:

Large venues such as indoor and outdoor stadiums, arenas and ballparks currently open as part of Phase 4, Step 1 at 12% will be permitted to increase capacity to 25%.

The Commonwealth will reopen some outdoor Phase 4, Step 2 industries including amusement parks, theme parks and outdoor water parks that will be permitted to operate at a 50% capacity after submitting safety plans to the Department of Public Health.

Road races and other large, outdoor organized amateur or professional group athletic events will be permitted to take place with staggered starts after submitting safety plans to a local board of health or the DPH.

Youth and adult amateur sports tournaments will be allowed for moderate and high risk sports.

Singing will also be permitted indoors with strict distancing requirements at performance venues, restaurants, event venues and other businesses.

Effective May 29th:

Subject to public health and vaccination data, gathering limits will increase to 200 people indoors and 250 people outdoors for event venues, public settings and private settings.

Subject to public health and vaccination data, additional Phase 4, Step 2 industries will be permitted to open including:

Street festivals, parades and agricultural festivals, at 50% of their previous capacity and after submitting safety plans to the local board of health.

Bars, beer gardens, breweries, wineries and distilleries, will be subject to restaurant rules with seated service only, a 90 minute limit and no dance floors.

Subject to public health and vaccination data, the restaurant guidance will be updated to eliminate the requirement that food be served with alcohol and to increase the maximum table size to 10.

Effective August 1st:

Subject to public health and vaccination data, remaining industries will be permitted to open including:

Dance clubs, and nightclubs

Saunas, hot-tubs, steam rooms at fitness centers, health clubs and other facilities

Indoor water parks

Ball pits

 All industry restrictions will be lifted at that time, and capacity will increase to 100% for all industries, with businesses encouraged to continue following best practices. The gathering limit will be rescinded.

 Depending on vaccine distribution and public health data, the Administration may consider re-evaluating the August 1st date.

 The Department of Public Health will also continue to issue guidance as needed, including guidance to still require masks indoors.

Face Coverings Order: 

 Effective April 30th, the Face Coverings Order will be relaxed for some outdoor settings.

 Face coverings will only be required outside in public when it is not possible to socially distance, and at other times required by sector-specific guidance.

 Face coverings will still be required at all times in indoor public places. Face coverings will also continue to be required at all times at events, whether held indoors or outdoors and whether held in a public space or private home, except for when eating or drinking.

 At smaller gatherings in private homes, face coverings are recommended but not required. The $300 fine as an enforcement mechanism will be eliminated.

 For more information, visit mass.gov/reopening. 

April 22, 2021

The Community Health Center of Cape Cod is hosting a COVID-19 vaccine clinic one week from today, on April 29th at the Cape Cod Fairgrounds.  There is a self-registration link that anyone can use to schedule an appointment: https://chcofcapecod.org/covid-19-vaccine-scheduling/ .  Please click the link below for more information. This clinic is open to anyone aged 16 and older.

March 18, 2021

Travel Advisory

Effective Monday, March 22, the Massachusetts Travel Order will be replaced with a Travel Advisory. 

• As of Monday, March 22, all visitors entering Massachusetts, including returning residents, are advised to quarantine for 10 days upon their arrival. 

• Travelers are exempt from this advisory if they have a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72 hours prior to their arrival in Massachusetts.  If not obtained before entry to Massachusetts, a test may be obtained after arrival, as long as travelers quarantine until a negative test result has been received.

• Anyone who is returning to Massachusetts after an absence of fewer than 24 hours is exempt from this advisory.
• Workers who enter Massachusetts to perform critical infrastructure functions (as specified by the Federal Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) are exempt from this advisory while they are commuting to or from or while at work.

• Travelers who are fully vaccinated (i.e. who have received two doses of either the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines OR who have received a single dose of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, 14 days or more ago) and who do not have symptoms are exempt from this advisory.

• Travelers are encouraged to consult and follow the CDC’s guidelines and requirements for travel: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/travel-during-covid19.html

March 17, 2021

March 15, 2021

Updated Workplace Safety Standards for Indoor and Outdoor Events (effective March 22, 2021; Phase IV, Step1) 

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/safety-standards-and-checklist-indoor-and-outdoor-events (scroll down to Phase IV, Step 1)

Note: Indoor and Outdoor events remain subject to the previously issued February 4, 2021 safety standards until these revised workplace safety standards go into effect on March 22, 2021.

MassVax Sites Pre-registration started today. Please post/share https://www.mass.gov/info-details/preregister-for-a-covid-19-vaccine-appointment

Vaccination Data

• Daily COVID-19 Vaccine Report -https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-covid-19-vaccination-data-and-updates#daily-covid-19-vaccine-report-
• Weekly COVID-19 Municipality Vaccination Data -  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/massachusetts-covid-19-vaccination-data-and-updates#weekly-covid-19-municipality-vaccination-data-

Vaccine Resources

• CDC page Vaccinating Homebound Persons With COVID-19 Vaccine - https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/covid-19/clinical-considerations/homebound-persons.html

U.S. Pharmacopeia guidance for transporting pre-drawn vaccine in syringes (see COVID-19 Vaccine Toolkit: Operational Considerations for Healthcare Practitioners) -https://www.usp.org/covid-19/vaccine-handling-toolkit

March 4, 2021

Baker-Polito Administration Announces K-12 Educators, Child Care Workers and K-12 School Staff Eligible for Vaccine Appointments Starting March 11th & Vaccine Appointment Availability for Next Week: 

https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-announces-k-12-edu...

Upcoming vaccination clinics: https://conta.cc/3rmlcSk

February 8, 2021

February 5, 2021

Scheduling covid-19 vaccine appointments for residents who are 75+ years of age

February 4, 2021

Vaccine Availability—

• Phase 2 of the State Vaccination Plan began on February 1^st.  Groups eligible for vaccination now are those in Phase 1, and Phase 2/Group 1 (persons aged 75+). Vaccine supplies are severely limited so we have 4-5 sub-regional vaccination sites on Cape Cod, some not yet to begin operation.  Vaccination at local clinics during Phase 2 will be by appointment only and appointments will be able to be scheduled once authorities can be sure of vaccine allotment from the DPH.  To find an appointment visit  COVID-19 Vaccine | Mass.gov
• The DPH is in discussions with the County Dept. of Health and Environment to open a DPH-operated mass vaccination site on Cape Cod. More information on this site will be forthcoming.
• Sign up for County COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Notification : Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment (barnstablecountyhealth.org) by visiting that weblink, you can subscribe to be notified for COVID-19 vaccine clinics via email 24 hours in advance from when a clinic will be opening for registration.
• The State should be announcing a helpline for elderly folks to get vaccines who do not have access to the internet or who are homebound.
• Each town within the County has individualized plans for operating emergency dispensing sites since 2007, but with such a severely limited vaccine supply, it is unknown if, when, or how, vaccines could be distributed on a town by town basis to exercise those emergency plans.  The Bourne Health Department will continue to engage with other municipal departments and community organizations to update and modify these plans as needed.  The goal is to be prepared for a multitude of scenarios to get the most vaccine out to the population.

Summary of Today’s Announcement -- Given recent improvements in COVID-19 data in the state, some of the recent temporary occupancy restrictions in sectors listed below are being lifted by the Governor. These changes are effective Monday February 8^th at 5:00 a.m.  

1. Lifting 25% Capacity Restriction –
   1. All businesses in the list below, currently limited to 25% capacity, will return to 40% capacity, as previously allowed. (The sector-specific industry standards dated in December 2020 will apply.)
      • Arcades and Recreational Businesses
      • Driving and Flight Schools
      • Gyms/Health Clubs
      • Libraries
      • Museums
      • Retail
      • Offices
      • Places of Worship
      • Lodging (common areas)
      • Golf (indoor areas)
      • Movie theaters (no more than 50 people per theater)
   2. Restaurants will now be limited to 40% of their seated capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will not count toward the limit
   3. Close Contact Personal Services will now be limited to 40% capacity and, as under the 25% capacity rule, employees will be not count toward the limit
      • A limit of 5 people per 1000 sq. feet applies for smaller businesses without an available fire occupancy capacity
   4. There continues to be no capacity limits on manufacturing, construction, and laboratories—these sectors have never had capacity limits

1. Gatherings Order
   1. The gatherings limit will stay at 10 indoors, 25 outdoors

1. The Commonwealth remains in Phase 3 Step 1 of Reopening (Order No. 58)
   1. indoor performance venues and indoor recreation businesses like roller rinks and trampoline parks remain closed

1. All changes are effective Monday February 8^th at 5:00 AM

February 3, 2021

Barnstable County Social Media Messaging week 2

February 2, 2021

ISSUE ALERT – Vaccine Phone Briefing

January 21, 2021

STAY AT HOME ADVISORY:

The DPH Stay at Home Advisory for the hours of 10:00 PM – 5:00 AM will be rescinded effective Monday, January 25^th at 5:00 AM.

MANDATORY EARLY CLOSING ORDER:

The Mandatory Early Closing Order, which since early November has required certain businesses to close by 9:30 PM each night, will be rescinded effective Monday, January 25^th at 5:00 AM.

Effective with the January 25 rescinding of the Order, the following businesses listed below may operate past 9:30 PM:

• Restaurants
• Arcades & Other Indoor & Outdoor Recreation (Phase 3, Step 1 only)
• Indoor and Outdoor Events
• Movie Theaters
• Outdoor Theaters
• Drive-In Movie Theaters
• Youth and Adult Amateur Sports Activities
• Golf Facilities
• Recreational Boating and Boating Businesses (e.g. charter boats)
• Outdoor Recreational Experiences (includes haunted houses)
• Casinos and Horse Tracks/Simulcast Facilities
• Driving and Flight Schools
• Zoos, Botanical Gardens, Wildlife Reserves, Nature Centers
• Close Contact Personal Services (e.g. hair and nail salons)
• Museums/Cultural & Historical Facilities/Guided Tours
• Gyms/Fitness Centers and Health Clubs
• Indoor and Outdoor Pools

Effective with the rescinding of the Early Closing Order, liquor stores and other retail establishments that sell alcohol will be permitted to sell alcohol past 9:30 PM; and adult use cannabis retailers will also be permitted to sell cannabis after 9:30 PM.

Gatherings and events will also be permitted to continue past 9:30 PM. All gatherings and events will remain subject to current capacity limits of 10 people indoors and 25 people outdoors.

Phase 3, Step 2 businesses must remain fully closed. 

SECTOR-SPECIFIC CAPACITY RESTRICTIONS & GATHERING LIMITS

Capacity Limits: Under the current restrictions that are being extended today, most customer-facing businesses operating in Massachusetts remain subject to a 25% capacity limit.

For a list of sectors subject to the extended capacity restrictions, click here.

Gatherings Limit: The current gathering limits in place since December 26 are also being extended to Monday, February 8^th. Indoor gatherings and events will remain limited to 10 people. Outdoor gatherings and events will remain limited to 25 people outside. The gatherings limit applies to private homes, event venues and public spaces.

January 15, 2021

Weekly Public Health Report

• NEW COVID-19 vaccine locations for individuals currently eligible to be vaccinated  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-locations-for-individuals-currently-eligible-to-be-vaccinated
• When can I get the COVID-19 Vaccine?   https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine
• COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Phases (timing by group) https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine#overview-and-current-status-

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health is removing the requirement for flu vaccination for attendance in childcare/preschool, primary, secondary and postsecondary education.  Preliminary data show that this has been a mild flu season to date, presumably as people have received their seasonal flu vaccine and have been adhering to mask-wearing and social distancing due to COVID-19.   Given the intensive Commonwealth-wide efforts regarding COVID-19 vaccination, DPH wants to alleviate the burden to obtain flu vaccination and focus on continuing our COVID -19 vaccination efforts.  

DPH continues to strongly recommend that everyone age six months and older receive their seasonal flu vaccine each year.  

January 13, 2021

Please know that health officials are working diligently to get the COVID vaccine to as many people as possible, as quickly as we can.

Phase 1 is now underway. Phase 2 is projected to start in late February/early March followed by Phase 3 in April. 

MOST PEOPLE ARE SCHEDULED TO RECEIVE THE VACCINE IN PHASE 3. As we move through the prioritization phases, information on where, when and how to get the vaccine will be announced publicly and posted on our website.   

Meanwhile, we regularly update the list of eligible jobs and groups prioritized within the state’s phases for COVID-19 vaccination. We encourage you to check the website for these updates. They can be found here:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/When-can-I-get-the-Covid-19-vaccine  

What you need to know:

•         groups are placed sequentially within each phase. 
•         diseases or conditions that qualify as a comorbidity can be found here: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-medical-conditions.html  
•         Please note that at this time we do not maintain a registry to sign up for the vaccine.

Other helpful information:

• Frequently Asked Questions and updates: https://www.mass.gov/CovidVaccine

--vaccination in nursing homes, rest homes, and other long-term care facilities:  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/long-term-care-facility-covid-19-vaccine-guidance

-- First Responder’s vaccination program: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-locations-for-first-responders

• COVID-19 vaccine metric dashboard: https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccination-program

For COVID vaccine providers:

•         Find information updated regularly about COVID-19 vaccine guidance, prioritization, and trainings at https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-information-for-providers.

January 7, 2021

Weekly Dashboard - Town of Bourne to be included in the COVID-19 Code Red Category in the Department of Public Health's next reporting

Currently, vaccine has been distributed for immunizing first responders, police, fire, ems, and those doing the vaccinations and running COVID test sites. You may check our website in the future for updates. There is no detailed information from the Bourne Board of Health today about vaccination options for other sectors, but information will constantly be updated and will be forthcoming.

The vaccine comes down in allotments from the state/Mass Department of Public Health.  As it is dispersed to the different priority groups, also established by the state, each sector must wait until a clinic is planned/implemented for their vaccinations.

Local Boards of Health ARE NOT ADMINISTERING VACCINES. COVID vaccination clinics are being planned on a regional basis, or by an individual town on Cape Cod (i.e. the Town of Barnstable).  Mass vaccination sites may be announced by the State in the future.

This is the exact same procedure that was used in the past during the 2009 swine flu pandemic, which was actually an influenza pandemic that lasted over a year and a half.

The proper protections should still be utilized before, and after, you receive your vaccine - social distancing, hand hygiene and mask wearing. Precautions against COVID-19 are necessary until each sector has had the opportunity to be fully vaccinated.  For more information please visit:

COVID-19 Vaccine Information: Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment (barnstablecountyhealth.org)

When Can I Get Vaccinated? Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment (barnstablecountyhealth.org)

Governor's Temporary Order to be extended for at least two weeks-- please visit (https://www.mass.gov/governor-updates) for more information.

January 5, 2021

Vaccination Updates:

• COVID-19 Vaccine Locations for First Responders  https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-vaccine-locations-for-first-responders​

Please note: 911 Dispatchers have been added to the first responder list.

• Vaccine Phase 2 Priority Group Adjustment: The Commonwealth updated its Vaccine Distribution plan so that individuals age 75+ are included in Phase 2, Group 1, along with individuals of all ages with 2+ comorbidities https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine#phase-2-.

• When Can I Get the COVID-19 Vaccine https://www.mass.gov/info-details/when-can-i-get-the-covid-19-vaccine.

Please note: The webpage is updated frequently; please check back often.

• COVID-19 Daily Vaccination Dashboard https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-response-reporting

• COVID-19 Vaccine e-mail address COVID-19-Vaccine-Plan-MA@mass.gov

December 30, 2020

Vaccination information:

• When can I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

• COVID-19 Vaccination Program

Phase 3, Step 1 Resources for Businesses:

• Return to work guidance http://www.mass.gov/lists/stop-covid-19-employee-return-to-work-guidance
• Employee Screening Questionnaire www.mass.gov/lists/stop-covid-19-employee-screening
• Business guidance- New Temporary Capacity Limits  www.mass.gov/lists/stop-covid-19-business-temporary-capacity
• Updated Shopping tips for retailers www.mass.gov/lists/stop-covid-19-holiday-shopping-reminders-for-stores

SARS-CoV-2 Variants information:

•         CDC web page: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html

December 24, 2020

COVID-19 Testing on Cape Cod

December 18, 2020

Weekly Dashboard

December 7, 2020

Updated Quarantine Information & Return-to-Work Guidance

MA has aligned its quarantine recommendations with those issued last week by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/more/scientific-brief-options-to-reduce-quarantine.html), and they go into effect today. The new guidance (attached) is based on recent CDC data showing that shortened quarantine periods result in only a small chance that someone may develop COVID-19 after leaving quarantine. The small risk that someone may develop COVID-19 after a shortened strict quarantine period is outweighed by the expected benefit of reduced transmission from the expected increased cooperation with adherence to the quarantine, according to the CDC.

• The majority of COVID-19 cases have incubation periods fewer than 10 days, although the possible incubation period is still 14 days. During the quarantine period, people must not have visitors in their homes and they cannot have contact with other people who live in their homes.
• The 14-day quarantine recommendation remains in place for any person experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms during the quarantine period, even if they have a negative test, and for those unwilling or unable to conduct active self-monitoring of symptoms.
• Under the new guidance, people who have no symptoms and have either a negative PCR or antigen test taken on Day 5 or later, can be released on Day 8 (following 7 days of quarantine).  
• If the person does not have a test and does not have symptoms, they may be allowed to leave quarantine on Day 11 (following 10 days of quarantine).
• Under either option, the individual must conduct active monitoring of their symptoms through Day 14 and get tested and isolate if they develop any sign of disease.
• The guidance for a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 has not changed, which means they should stay in self-isolation for 10 days. They can resume public activities after the 10 days as long as they have gone for 24 hours without a fever and without taking fever-reducing medications like Tylenol and have experienced improvement in other symptoms, such as a cough that has gotten much better.

The Department of Public Health is also updating quarantine guidelines in return to work guidance, effective today. The guidance clarifies that certain sectors may continue to work during their quarantine period to preserve critical societal functions. This is only allowed if the worker remains asymptomatic. These sectors include healthcare workers, first responders, and critical infrastructure workers, as defined by CDC. Please see the guidance attached or online at www.mass.gov/quarantine

Barnstable County Updates

Case Numbers and Figures : Barnstable County Department of Health and Environment (barnstablecountyhealth.org)

Hyannis & Falmouth Testing Sites coming soon

Testing Update

Governor Baker announced today (https://www.mass.gov/governor-updates) that state-supported testing capacity is being expanded and offered regionally. This expansion will increase testing sites beyond existing Stop the Spread sites and be available in 25 communities, open to all Massachusetts residents.

The Administration has expanded large capacity and express Stop the Spread sites in Framingham, New Bedford, and Lynn. Framingham began its testing today and the other sites will open over the next couple of weeks. These sites will be able to offer testing to approximately 1,000 residents a day. Details are available on www.mass.gov.

Baker-Polito Administration Submits Initial Vaccine Order to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Press Release

https://www.mass.gov/news/baker-polito-administration-submits-initial-vaccine-order-to-the-us-centers-for-disease

December 3, 2020

Weekly Dashboard

DESE Revises Protocols for Responding to COVID-19 in Schools

November 25, 2020

Weekly Dashboard

As Massachusetts residents plan for the Thanksgiving holiday, State and Local Officials offer the following considerations to help keep our friends, families, and communities safe during COVID-19. If you host or attend a holiday celebration, keep it small to those people you live with or a small group of individuals whom you are regularly in contact.  Consider the data and that higher levels of COVID-19 cases and community spread in the gathering location, as well as where attendees are coming from, increase the risk of infection and spread among attendees. Limit nonessential travel to only low-risk areas, and when participating in a celebration, please be sure to follow public health guidance.

While enjoying any time off or when returning to work, please be cognizant that on November 6, 2020, Governor Charles Baker issued Order No. 55 requiring the use of face coverings by all people in Massachusetts over 5 years of age when in public locations, whether indoors or outdoors.  Public locations consist of any place open to the public, including public streets and ways and places of employment. 

Nationally and locally we are experiencing another surge in COVID-19 cases.  In Bourne the predicted average daily cases per 100,000 has increased from 11.2 to 15.4 during this reporting period.  It is imperative that we remain vigilant with social distancing, handwashing, and wearing masks.  Thank you for doing your part in continuing to keep each other safe and healthy during the holiday season.

November 20, 2020

Department of Labor Standards – Online Form

Proposals to plan for an outdoor activity not provided for in sector-specific guidance:

www.mass.gov/forms/proposals-to-plan-for-an-outdoor-activity-not-provide...

November 19, 2020

Weekly Dashboard

November 18, 2020

The following was announced during the Governor’s press conference this morning.  DPH has issued updated quarantine guidance that takes effect today:

 ·       Web page - https://www.mass.gov/guidance/information-and-guidance-for-persons-in-qu...

Document download – https://www.mass.gov/media/2208931/download

While the initial guidance to quarantine for 14 days after exposure still stands, this additional guidance will allow those who have been exposed to COVID to test out of quarantine after 10 days if they meet ALL of the following parameters:

 They have not had, and do not have, any symptoms of COVID;

If they are tested on day 8 of their quarantine period or later using a molecular diagnostic test, a PCR test, and receive a negative test result; and

They must monitor themselves for symptoms for the full 14 days. Any individual that develops symptoms should contact their local health care provider and be re-tested.

November 17, 2020

Below are links about the travel order and the current list of lower risk states.

Travel Order  

Lower Risk States

Please note that the Lower-risk state list was last updated: November 13, 2020. (District of Columbia, New York, Washington State removed as lower-risk, effective 12:01AM on November 14, 2020)

Massachusetts residents are urged to limit any out-of-State travel only to States designated as COVID-19 lower-risk States.

November 10, 2020

Weekly Dashboard

November 6, 2020

The following COVID-19 sector-specific safety standards have been updated effective November 6, 2020 to align with the COVID-19 orders announced earlier this week:

• Indoor and Outdoor Events Standards
• Restaurant Standards
• Retail Business Standards
• Close Contact Personal Services Standards
• Arcades and Other Indoor and Outdoor Game and Recreation Businesses Standards
• Theaters and Performance Venues Standards
• Golf Facilities Standards
• Fitness Centers and Health Clubs Standards
• Museums and Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours Standards

November 3, 2020

Bourne Weekly Dashboard

Find a Test Site Near You

November 2, 2020

Limits on Gatherings, Revised Face Coverings Order, Early Closures & Stay at Home Advisory

Effective November 6, 2020

Governor's COVID-19 Order #54 made adjustments to gathering limits:

• Indoor gatherings at private residences limited to 10 people

Outdoor gatherings at private residences limited to 25 people

Governor's COVID-19 Order #55 will require face coverings or masks to be worn in public places in addition to maintaining social distancing.

• Masks should be worn in gatherings >10 people who are not your household family members
• Exemptions apply

Mandatory Night-Time Closing Period for Certain Businesses and Activities

• 9:30PM - 5:00AM
• Exclusions apply
• Stay at Home Advisory

https://youtu.be/AGcjcX7Dayw

October 31, 2020 

Emergency Absentee Ballot. The Secretary of State’s office has a process for requesting an absentee ballot in the event of being required to quarantine or admission to a healthcare facility. The link for that process is here:  www.sec.state.ma.us/ele/eleabsentee/absidx.htm

October 29, 2020 Pandemic Update & FAQs

New Local Town of Bourne COVID-19 Weekly Dashboard is now available online prior to release of Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) Weekly Reports

On October 28, 2020, the Bourne Health Department launched a Weekly COVID-19 Dashboard on our website.  The predicted average daily cases per 100,000 residents over the 14-day period was 5.1 with a cumulative count of confirmed cases in Bourne as 227.  The Department of Public Health confirmed the validity of our local data in their Weekly Report this evening.  Please note: Data for these reports are based on information available in the DPH surveillance database at a single point in time for 10/11/2020- 10/24/2020. Case counts for specific cities and towns change throughout the day as data cleaning occurs (removal of duplicate reports within the system) and new demographic information (assigning cases to their city or town of residence) is obtained.

What is the percent positivity of COVID-19 tests in Bourne?

Epidemiologists suggest using a 14-day average to represent the percent positivity of all SARS-CoV-2 cases reported in the Massachusetts Epidemiologic Disease Surveillance System.  This is one full incubation period for COVID-19, and a reasonable amount of time to get suitable metrics.  The same number of tests are not conducted each day, so it is important to look at a bigger sample.  From October 11^th – October 24^th the percent positivity of the 1,794 tests for Bourne residents has been reported at 1.09%, which is higher than 0.64% reported for the period October 7^th – October 14^th.

Keep up with the vigilance & please answer your phone

More cases occur with occasional spreader events and contact tracing and testing is underway.  Additional elevated new case numbers in the coming days would not be surprising for the County and the Commonwealth as a whole as Governor Baker urged us to take extra caution during informal, indoor gatherings.  Please answer the call from contact tracers and cooperate with your public health officials.  If you live in Bourne, you may receive a call from the Bourne Health Agent, our Public Health Nurses who operate from the VNA of Cape Cod/ Cape Cod Health Care, your local School District, or the Massachusetts Community Tracing Collaborative.

Safe, happy, and healthy holiday tips are available online for you to make informed decisions for your family.

Visit https://www.mass.gov/news/state-public-health-officials-offer-tips-for-a-safe-and-healthy-halloween or https://www.mass.gov/news/thanksgiving-during-covid-19 for more information on how to protect your loved ones and community this fall.

Visit mass.gov/COVID19 for the most up to date information or townofbourne.com/health and always utilize reliable sources of information

October 28, 2020

https://www.townofbourne.com/health/news/covid-19-information

Bourne Weekly Dashboard October 11th- October 24th

October 27, 2020

Safe & Healthy Halloween Tips

Thanksgiving During COVID-19

August 5th, 2020

State COVID Safe Practices Concern Form

July 29th, 2020

Order N.45

Phase III Step 1 - Youth and Adult Amateur Sports 7.6.20 FINAL

COVID-19 Order No. 43 - Phase III

Baker-Polito Administration press conference on Phase III (video)

Reopening Massachusetts: Baker-Polito Administration Initiates Transition to Third Phase of Four-Phase Approach (press release)

Phase III Step 1 Safety Standards and Checklist: Fitness Centers and Health Clubs

Phase III Step 1 Safety Standards and Checklist: Museums and Cultural and Historical Facilities and Guided Tours​

Phase III Step 1 Safety Standards and Checklist: Indoor and Outdoor Events

Phase III Step 1 Safety Standards and Checklist: Indoor Recreation

Phase III Step 1 Safety Standards and Checklist: Theaters and Performance Venues

Phase III Step 1 Guidance on Reopening Health and Human Services​

Phase III Step 1 Outdoor Recreation (EEA)

·         Coastal and Inland Beaches

·         Youth and Adult Amateur Sports Activities (coming soon)

·         Public and Semi-Public Swimming Pools

·         Parks, Open Space, and Outdoor Education Programs

·         Playgrounds, Spray Decks and Outdoor Fitness Areas

·         Recreational Boating and Boating Businesses

·         Hunter Education

·         Zoos, Botanical Gardens, Wildlife Reserves, Nature Centers

·         Outdoor Recreational Experiences and Educational Activities

·         Campgrounds

·         Outdoor Recreation Reopening Presentation (coming soon)

·         Drive-In Theaters

June 15th, 2020

COVID-19 'Pop Up" Testing Initiative - Large Gatherings - June 17-18

June 9th, 2020

Board of Selectman Public Meeting Notice-Quorum Reduction-6/17/20

June 3rd, 2020

06-03-20 ISWM Department Covid-19 Update

May 20, 2020

Town of Bourne Integrated Solid Waste Management Update

May 14, 2020

MA Department of Public Health COVID-19 Testing Criteria Update

Maintaining Emotional Health & Well-Being During the COVID-19 Outbreak

May 8, 2020

The MA COVID Team is Calling

May 7, 2020

Task Force Launched to Reopen Cape Cod Safely

COVID-19 Essential Services FAQ

May 6, 2020

Covid-19 ISWM Update on Protocol

Guidance to Cape & Islands Seasonal Community

May 4, 2020

Face Covering Information- Bourne Board of Health

May 1, 2020

Governor Baker Face Covering Order

April 29, 2020

COVID-19 ISWM Update issued April 29, 2020

April 7, 2020

Food Establishment Updates- Bourne Board of Health

April 2, 2020

EOEA DPH Order Guidance for Assited Living Residences

Additional Steps to Encourage Social Distancing at State Parks and Beaches

March 31, 2020

Hotel & Motel Guidance

March 27, 2020

COVID-19 Update Travel Advisory issued March 27, 2020

March 19, 2020

Town Announces First Case of COVID-19

March 19, 2020

A Statement from Judith Froman, Chair, Board of Selectmen

Bourne's unified command team (administration, health dept, fire dept, police dept, schools, board of health, board of selectmen) is working diligently to assure calm and well thought out response to the COVID 19. Information regarding the pandemic changes throughout each day.

The Health Department will be communicating helpful information regarding how to handle various symptoms and steps to take. Stay home as much as possible and minimize exposure to others so as not to stress our healthcare system. Contact the Health Department with your questions and/or concerns. You may need to leave a detailed message to assure that the right person follows up. (508) 759-0615

The Town Administrator will be communicating an operational update on Friday. He has been meeting with each department to assure expectations and protocols and to answer questions and concerns. Public safety and health are the priority at this time.

If you happen to be in a business that uses PPEs (Personal Protective Equipment) and you have extra supplies or you are currently not using the supplies, please call the Fire Department non-emergency number at 508-759-4412 to discuss how your supplies might be able to supplement the Town's supplies.

The people running our Town of Bourne (all departments, but especially safety and health and administration), are showing the diligence and cohesiveness that provides calmness and confidence. This is a well practiced skill that is so often behind the scenes. This is an unprecedented time and they are more than rising to the occasion. Thank you

March 18, 2020

Board of Selectmen issue Declaration of Emergency

March 16, 2020

Executive Order from Governor Charlie Baker

As we continue to deal with the issues surrounding COVID-19 and implementing changes to how we provide Town Services and at the same time, keep you and town staff safe, the following changes have been made. In response to the Governor’s announcements last evening, All Town Buildings will be closed to the general public starting Monday, March 16, 2020 at 10am. This includes Town Hall Library, DPW and Community Center. Out Public Safety Buildings will remain open, however it is highly encouraged that everyone consider delaying non emergency business in those facilities. 

March 11, 2020

Joint Statement from Bourne Town, School and Health Officials on COVID-19

On Tuesday March 10, 2020, Governor Charlie Baker declared a state of emergency in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to support the state’s response to the outbreak of Coronavirus (COVID-19). The health and safety of the Town of Bourne and its residents is of paramount importance. Therefore, Town, Health, and School leaders are working together and currently coordinating efforts and reviewing the latest information and discussing the suspension of services and programs in an effort to mitigate the spread of this disease.

Following the guidance of the Baker-Polito Administration and the Department of Public Health (DPH), the Town of Bourne would like to notify residents that in order to be thoughtful, prudent, and consistent with these recommendations, large events and gatherings should be cancelled or postponed until we reach a point in time where the risk of exposure to coronavirus is minimized. This afternoon, the MassDPH has updated the totals for Massachusetts residents subject to COVID-19 quarantine as of March 10, 2020. The total number of individuals which are currently undergoing monitoring/ under quarantine has increased from last week to 445 people. There are 92 confirmed and presumptive positive cases as of this date, none of which reside in the Town of Bourne. Additionally, the World Health Organization has made the assessment that COVID-19 can be characterized as a pandemic.

It is our goal to maintain our critical services which can be safely delivered. We are suggesting that our community decrease the potential for passing the virus by promoting handwashing and social distancing when interactions are necessary. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), those who are at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 are older adults and those with serious chronic medical conditions like, heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease.

As this situation continues to evolve rapidly, we will continue to keep the public up-to-date with credible information and guidance. Residents and other interested parties should refer to both the Town and School Websites for up to date information related to event cancellations or modifications to certain events.

We also recommend the following resources which are updated daily:

MDPH Resource Page

CDC COVID-19 Information