7/17/2020 Press Conference on COVID-19 Updates

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On July 17th, Governor Baker gave a press conference to provide a COVID-19 update on Testing, Hospitalizations, and the Assawompset Pond Complex.

Here is the summary.

Testing

  • Yesterday, almost 13,000 tests were reported in MA with 143 new positive cases reported. MA has now reached over 1,300,000 tests administered so far. 

    • The seven day average for positive case rates is about 1.7%. This is a 95% decrease from the middle of April. 

  • Please continue to wear face coverings, practice good hand washing/hygiene, disinfect surfaces, and social distance. 

Hospitalizations

  • As of yesterday, there are currently just over 557 individuals hospitalized as a result of COVID-19 and 77 of those individuals are in the ICU. 

  • Please do not hesitate to contact your health care provider about any concerns you may have, COVID-19 related or not. Telehealth is currently a covered benefit in MA that will be extended to cover all residents until at least the end of the calendar year.

Assawompset Pond Complex

  • Governor Baker gave his press conference at the Assawompset Pond today. The pond is an important natural resource to the Commonwealth as well as a source of drinking water for Taunton and New Bedford. 

  • This complex has experienced flooding issues that have caused evacuations, property damage, and problems for utility and road infrastructure. MA has worked to create support for these communities to be able to protect themselves. 

    • MA has spent $780 million over the past 5 years on mitigation and preparation efforts associated with climate change. 

  • New Bedford’s Water Division is a partner that is working to protect the water quality of the Pond. 

    • They closely monitor the pond’s water levels at several locations, collect data on groundwater levels and rainfall amounts, coordinate dam operations quarterly with the surrounding communities, and work with Fisheries and Wildlife as well with the Herring Commission.  

      • They are working towards scientifically addressing flooding and sustainably restoring the natural environment by working with nature, instead of against it.