By Cathy Iino, First Selectman, Killingworth.
I am sorry to say that Killingworth’s cumulative number of COVID cases leapt up to 68 on Wednesday—70 if you include probable as well as confirmed cases. Several of these cases were in a single household; others were unconnected individuals.
Our rate of increase per 100,000 population from November 8 to November 21 was 25.8, up from 16.9.
Statewide, almost one thousand people are hospitalized with the coronavirus, and the total number of deaths is approaching 5,000.
These numbers are a clear reminder that, whatever promising vaccines or cures are on the horizon, we are still very much at risk now. Any chances we decide to take for ourselves have effects even beyond our friends and families. First responders, health care providers, and others who provide essential services are endangered by every additional case. Their sacrifices outweigh the minor and major inconveniences of taking steps to prevent the spread of this often deadly disease.
COVID Alert CT. Close to 750,000 Connecticut residents have signed up for the smartphone app that lets you know if you have been exposed to COVID-19. The more people sign up, the more useful the app is. COVID Alert CT is voluntary, anonymous, and very simple to download. If you have an Apple or Android device, this is one step you can take in the fight against the pandemic that will have wide benefits beyond your own health.
Information and instructions on how to use the app are here.
Step Up CT. We all know how much Killingworth relies on volunteers, and now the state is asking those who are healthy to contribute their time and abilities to help combat the pandemic. There’s a great need for both medical and nonmedical volunteers. A statewide, centralized process makes it easy to sign up. If you are at least 18 years old and under 60 and are not immunocompromised, please go to Step Up CT and see where you could be of service. Join the hundreds who have already offered to work in schools, testing centers, and other locations where there are extraordinary needs right now.
Stuff-a-Cruiser. Don’t forget to bring a toy or other gift to the Stuff-a-Cruiser event this coming Saturday, November 28th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm at the Killingworth Town Hall. Resident Trooper Mulhall tells me that Haddam collected enough to fill four SUVs last weekend; let’s beat that incredible record! Unwrapped toys and other gifts, gift certificates, or cash donations will brighten the season for families in need.
Giving Thanks. On the eve of this most unusual of Thanksgivings, I want especially to thank the Killingworth Volunteer Fire Company and the Killingworth Ambulance Association their service. These dedicated men and women respond day and night to our most critical needs, and they continue to do so in the face of the extra threat posed by the COVID pandemic. Our town’s debt of gratitude to them is enormous.
Stay safe, give thanks, and carry on.
